Panthers re-sign Wade Belak for 2 years

Panthers tough guy Wade Belak will have at least two more years to enjoy the Florida sun while plying his trade in the National Hockey League.

Belak on Monday re-signed with the Panthers for two years and $1.3 million US, despite not recording a point in 17 regular-season games following a Feb. 26 trade from Toronto.

"Wade is a high-character, hard-working player and versatile player who immediately made an impact on our team last season," Florida general manager Jacques Martin said in a release. "He provides our club with a tremendous physical presence and we look forward to his continued contributions to our team both on and off the ice for the next two years."

Belak, who cost the Panthers a fifth-round pick in next month's NHL entry draft, posted one goal and 78 penalty minutes in 47 games for Florida and Toronto this season.

The Saskatoon native has played for four teams (Calgary, Colorado, Toronto, Florida) in his 11-year NHL career, recording 29 points and 1,108 penalty minutes.

Belak has appeared in 22 career playoff games, all with Toronto, scoring one goal.

Also on Monday, the Panthers agreed to terms with centre Kamil Kreps on a two-year contract and defenceman Luke Beaverson on an entry-level contract.

In 74 games this season, Kreps had eight goals and 25 points.

Beaverson had three points in his senior season at the University of Alaska-Anchorage.