Sharks Sign Brent Burns To Five-Year, $28.8M Extension

The San Jose Sharks have signed defenseman Brent Burns to a five-year, $28.8 million extension, according to reports. Burns was set to become an unrestricted free agent following the 2011-2012 season.

Burns entered into the league after being drafted in the first round of the 2003 NHL Draft by the Minnesota Wild. Considered by many to be a can't-miss prospect, the 6-5 26-year-old quickly ingrained himself as one of the best young two-way defensemen in the league. He averaged career highs of 17 goals and 29 assists during the '10-'11 season, while playing in 80 games.

Following the conclusion of the season, Burns was traded to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for Devin Setoguchi, Charlie Coyle, and a first round pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. According to reports, Burns intended to play out the final year of his contract before making any long-term decisions, but was swayed by the reception he received from his new team.

"There are a lot of great players (in San Jose). Hopefully I can come in and just mesh well with the team," Burns said.

For more on Brent Burns and the San Jose Sharks, visit Fear the Fin.