Dany Heatley strikes 6-year deal with Senators

Last Updated: Wednesday, October 3, 2007 | 11:17 PM ET

CBC Sports

Ottawa Senators forward Dany Heatley agreed Wednesday to a six-year, $45-million US contract extension, and paid dividends by scoring twice in a season-opening 4-3 overtime victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs.

"It's good to get it done," Senators general manager Bryan Murray said. "We're very pleased with that.

Dany Heatley has posted 103- and 105-point seasons for the Senators.
(Frank Gunn/Canadian Press)

"You have to try to look after the players you feel you can go forward with. And certainly, Dany was one of those."

Heatley, 26, was slated to make $5.5 million US this season in the final year of a three-year pact he inked on Aug. 23, 2005.

However, the new front-loaded deal averages out to $7.5 million US per season, tops on the Senators. 

"I'm just thrilled and happy that we were able to get it done before the season started," he said.

Heatley has posted consecutive 50-goal seasons for the Senators, who acquired him from the Atlanta Thrashers for Marian Hossa and Greg de Vries. 

"I have really enjoyed my two years in Ottawa," Heatley said. "I love the city, the fans and the organization."

Heatley, a four-time all-star, has totalled 180 goals and 209 assists for 389 points in 354 games since being selected second overall by Atlanta in the 2000 NHL draft.

"Heatley has been successful as a goal-scorer wherever he has been," Murray said. "He is a very competitive guy.

"He is maturing and growing now. He is probably a better man than he was a few years ago — in his game and in his team play."

Heatley rallied the Senators past the Maple Leafs on Wednesday night, scoring the tying goal with 5:35 remaining in the third period and the winning goal at 2:57 of overtime.