Cam Barker Re-Signs with Chicago Blackhawks

The NHL has been investigating the Chicago Blackhawks for the mishandling of their restricted free agents. Today the Chicago Blackhawks locked up six of those seven restricted free agents with new deals.

Earlier in the day we learned of the Blackhawks re-signing Ben Eager, Colin Fraser, Aaron Johnson, Troy Brouwer, and Corey Crawford, but just a few minutes ago it was announced that the Chicago Blackhawks have signed defenseman Cam Barker to a three-year deal worth around $9.25 million.

This leaves only Kris Versteeg among the players that are part of the grievance filed by the NHLPA against the Blackhawks.

If Kris Versteeg's restricted free agent status is relinquished then it is likely that the Blackhawks will not be able to re-sign him.

Even if they are able to keep Versteeg, there is still a chance he could be moved.

Versteeg will likely be looking for a contract similar to teammate Dave Bolland who received a five-year deal worth a little over $16 million, which the Blackhawks might not be able to afford.

Although Versteeg was a Calder trophy finalist this season, Cam Barker was the more important player to take care of this offseason.

The Blackhawks are thin on the back end, and needed to retain Barker to keep their depth secure.

With the signing of Barker the Blackhawks have avoided a major headache that could have set the franchise back, and possibly dampened their chances of making a strong Stanley Cup run.