Panthers sign MacKenzie to 2-year extension worth reported $2.7M

The Florida Panthers have signed forward Derek MacKenzie to a two-year contract extension.

The deal is believed to be worth $2.7 million, with an average annual valuation of $1.35 million. MacKenzie had one year remaining on his current deal, carrying a $1.3-million cap hit through to the end of 2016-17.

The extension, therefore, will kick in at the beginning of 2017-18, keeping him under contract for the next three years in total.

"Derek is a leader on our team and a true professional," said general manager Tom Rowe. "His experience, work ethic, and character make him a respected presence on the ice and throughout our organization."

The 35-year-old recorded six goals and seven assists in 64 games this past season, adding one assist in six playoff games.