Former Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Antti Niemi has decided to accept a one-year, $2 million deal with the San Jose Sharks, according to a league source.
After helping lead the Blackhawks to their first Stanley Cup title in 49 years, Niemi and Chicago went to salary arbitration. The Blackhawks submitted an offer of $1.5 million, but the arbitrator awarded Niemi $2.75 million.
That was too much for the salary cap-strained Blackhawks, who cut ties with Niemi and signed former Dallas Stars goaltender Marty Turco.
The Sharks have been one of Chicago's postseason rivals in recent years. Niemi had a strong series in the Western Conference finals in helping the Blackhawks sweep the Sharks.
After helping lead the Blackhawks to their first Stanley Cup title in 49 years, Niemi and Chicago went to salary arbitration. The Blackhawks submitted an offer of $1.5 million, but the arbitrator awarded Niemi $2.75 million.
That was too much for the salary cap-strained Blackhawks, who cut ties with Niemi and signed former Dallas Stars goaltender Marty Turco.
The Sharks have been one of Chicago's postseason rivals in recent years. Niemi had a strong series in the Western Conference finals in helping the Blackhawks sweep the Sharks.
