Coming off what was one of the best offensive seasons we've seen in recent years by a defenseman, Erik Karlsson has agreed to a seven-year contract extension with the Ottawa Senators.

According to TSN's Bob McKenzie, the deal carries an average salary cap hit of $6.5 million per year.

He would have been eligible for restricted free agency this summer had a new deal not been signed before July 1.

“We are extremely pleased to announce that Erik Karlsson’s contract has been extended for seven more years," said Senators owner Eugene Melnyk in a team statement. “Erik is the type of player and person that embodies an Ottawa Senator, and we are confident that on a personal basis, he will quickly become a role model for many of our young Sens fans and a great contributor to our community. We feel strongly that this long-term commitment will be great for both sides. As one of the cornerstones of our franchise, Erik will be a large part of the future success that Senators fans can look forward to.”

The 15th overall pick in the NHL draft, Karlsson's production has increased every year he's been in the NHL, including this past season when he averaged nearly a point-per-game from the blue line. He finished the season with 19 goals 59 assists, leading all NHL defensemen with 78 points. No other defensemen had more than 53.

His performance also earned him a spot among the three finalists for the Norris Trophy which is awarded to the best overall defenseman in the NHL every year.

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