Anaheim Ducks Sign Antoine Vermette to Two Year Deal

The Anaheim Ducks signed Antoine Vermette to a two-year, 3.5 million-dollar contract on Monday.

Vermette, 34, was bought out by the Arizona Coyotes on August 1, with one season left on his two-year deal with Arizona. In 76 games with the Coyotes last season, he scored 17 goals and 21 assists. 

Vermette told the Ducks website, “I have always portrayed [the Ducks] as Cup contenders. That is a big thing for me. I had the chance to win it not too long ago, and now, later in my career, I believe in this team and this organization.”  

He added, “I take a lot of pride in my preparation in the summer and how I carry myself during the season. I am 34, but I don’t feel that old. I know it is not very old, but in the game, you see so many young guys. I feel really good. I had a great summer again. I will keep pushing hard and hopefully I can keep playing for a long time.”

Prior to the 2015 National Hockey League trade deadline, he was dealt by the Coyotes to the Chicago Blackhawks. During the 2015 Western Conference Finals against the Ducks, Vermette scored the game winning goal in double overtime of game four. After he helped Chicago get past Anaheim in seven games, the Blackhawks then went on to capture the Stanley Cup. 

Before the start of the 2015-2016, he returned to the desert. In 910 regular season games, he has put up 211 goals and 260 assists, with 546 penalty minutes. He has added another 13 goals and 12 assists in 78 postseason games. 

Vermette said, “This is always a tough team. When you play the Ducks, you know you are in for a big game. They are big and skilled. They use those assets very well. I am glad to be on their side. They have a lot of tools in the lineup that can hurt you, and there are a lot of good players. I am very excited to jump on board and find the right chemistry to give us another championship.”