Jake Sanderson, Senators agree to eight-year, $64.4 million contract extension

The star defenseman's deal carries a $8.05 average annual value

By Chris Bengel Sep 7, 2023 at 10:02 am ET• 1 min read

The Ottawa Senators have locked up star defenseman Jake Sanderson for the next decade. On Wednesday, Sanderson signed an eight-year, $64.4 million contract extension that carries an average annual value of $8.05 million.

The deal runs through the 2031-32 season and includes a 10-team no-trade clause list. Sanderson was set to enter the final year of his entry level contract in 2023-24.

Sanderson, who was selected with the No. 5 pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, just wrapped up a very successful rookie campaign in which he recorded 32 points (four goals and 28 assists). The 21-year-old finished second among Senators defensemen in scoring while being named to the NHL's All-Rookie Team at the conclusion of the season. Thomas Chabot was the only other Senators blue-liner that logged more ice time on a nightly basis than Sanderson.

"Jake's transition to the pro game has been flawless," Senators general manager Pierre Dorion said in a statement. "He's a very mature young man who demonstrates a routine and skillful ability to play important minutes with poise. An effortless skater who holds himself to a high standard, he has the talent to be one of the best all-around defensemen in the NHL for years to come. We're very pleased to have another significant member of our core group of players under long-term contract."