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Monday I reported the New Jersey Devils and Blake Coleman were making progress on a contract extension​ and there was optimism arbitration would not be necessary.

That proved to be the case as the two sides agreed to terms on a three-year extension worth $1.8 million per season.

While that may seem a little much for a role player with one NHL season under his belt, I think it's a reasonable contract.

Offensively, Coleman had a solid season given the role he played. He put up 25 total points (13 goals, 12 assists), finished 5th on the team in 5v5 scoring, and 4th on the team in scoring chances – behind only Taylor Hall, Nico Hischier, and Miles Wood.

Whether he can duplicate those kinds of numbers remains to be seen but the real value comes from his defense, anyway.

Coleman ranked 2nd among Devils forwards, and 35th among all forwards, in Defensive Goals Above Replacement at 5v5.

He was also solid on the penalty kill and led Devils forwards in time on ice while down a man.

Coleman had a really strong season despite regularly taking on tough assignments, and the Devils are buying up two UFA years, so I have no issue with this deal.

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