Rangers, Marc Staal make 6-year contract extension official

The New York Rangers have signed defenseman Marc Staal to a six-year contract extension, the club announced Sunday.

The deal is worth a reported $34.2 million and was agreed to in principle on Friday afternoon.

"Marc has been one of the cornerstones of our team since he arrived in New York," Rangers president and general manager Glen Sather said.

"His commitment and perseverance to the Rangers, and the game of hockey, has been an inspiration for everyone in the organization, and he has become a role model for young players and veterans alike. We are excited that he will continue to provide that leadership in a Rangers uniform."

Staal isn't known for his offensive production, but he leads the Rangers in even-strength ice time (19:21 per game) through 43 games.

He has spent his entire eight-year NHL career with the Rangers after being drafted 12th overall in 2005.