Couture agrees to extension with Sharks

[June 19, 2013]  SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) -- The San Jose Sharks have agreed to a contract extension with star center Logan Couture to keep him off the market next summer.

A person familiar with the deal confirmed the extension Tuesday, which was first reported by Comcast SportsNet California. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the contract can't be signed until the free agency window opens July 5.

Couture is owed $3 million next season in the final year of a two-year, $5.75 million contract. Couture would have been eligible to be a restricted free agent next summer.

The 24-year-old Couture has emerged as one of the Sharks' top players. He has led the team in goals the past two seasons and often drew the toughest defensive matchups this season.

[Associated Press; By JOSH DUBOW]

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