Predators sign Mattias Ekholm to 2-year contract

The Nashville Predators crossed another player off their restricted free agent list, signing defenseman Mattias Ekholm to a two-year, $2.075-million contract.

The Predators avoided going to arbitration with the 24-year-old, who notched a goal and nine points in his rookie season patrolling the point in The Music City.

A fourth round draft pick (102nd overall) in 2009, Ekholm posted 10 goals and 32 points in 59 games with the AHL's Milwaukee Admirals in 2012-13.