Tomas Plekanec inks two-year, $12 million extension with Canadiens

The extension Tomas Plekanec signed with the Montreal Canadiens on Friday is an interesting one. The forward inked a two-year deal on Friday, which according to Bob McKenzie will see him earn $12 million over that time.

Plekanec was set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, so when his new deal expires he’ll be a few months away from turning 36 years old. As Alex Galchenyuk moves to center this season, the natually progression would be for the young pivot to take over the no. 1 job down the middle with Plekanec easing into a no. 2 or no. 3 role over time.

During his career Plekanec has proved to be a durable player. Since the 2006-07 season, he’s missed only 12 regular season games. He’s also been a consistent 20-goal scorer and posted his best numbers in five years last season. He’s obviously committed to winning a Stanley Cup with the only NHL franchise he’s ever known.

But per Pierre LeBrun, Plekanec’s deal does not include any sort of no-trade or no-move clause. If things go south for the Habs and GM Marc Bergevin is ready to give some of his younger players increased responsibilities, then he has the flexibility to get something in return for a consistently productive centerman.

- - - - - - -

Sean Leahy is the associate editor for Puck Daddy on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at puckdaddyblog@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Sean_Leahy

MORE FROM YAHOO HOCKEY: