Ducks sign captain Ryan Getzlaf to 8-year extension

The Anaheim Ducks have signed captain Ryan Getzlaf to an eight-year contract extension, the team announced.

Getzlaf's pending free agency linked him to Ducks trade rumors despite the team's successful start in 2013.

Getzlaf, a member of the 2007 Stanley Cup champion Ducks and 2010 Canadian Olympic gold medal team, s now under contract with the Ducks through the 2020-21 NHL season. The club did not reveal financial terms of the deal.

“We are very happy to have Ryan committed to this franchise long-term,” said Ducks Executive Vice President/General Manager Bob Murray. “He has often expressed his interest to stay in Anaheim for his entire career, a goal we share. He is a leader, a proven winner, and possesses a skill set that’s hard to find. This is a great day for the Ducks.”

Getzlaf, 27, ranks third among all-time Ducks franchise leaders in points and assists, fifth in goals and power-play goals (55), fourth in game-winning goals (25), second in plus/minus and sixth in appearances. He leads the club in all-time playoff assists, ranks second in scoring and tied for second in goals. Getzlaf was the leading postseason scorer during the Ducks' run to the  2007 Stanley Cup championship with 7-10=17 points -- a team record for most points in a single playoff season.

“I’m extremely thankful to the Samuelis, Michael Schulman, Bob Murray and the entire Ducks organization for the opportunity to remain in Anaheim for the long-term,” said Getzlaf. “This is a wonderful day for my family, as Anaheim has become our home. The fans here have treated me very well, and I look forward to being part of a winning hockey team and contributing to the Orange County community for years to come.”