The Montreal Canadiens have signed forwards Steve Begin, Aaron Downey and Garth Murray. Begin signed a three-year deal, Downey inked a one-year agreement while Murray signed a two-year contract.
''We are very pleased to have Steve Begin under contract with the organization for the next three years,'' said Canadiens general manager Bob Gainey. ''Steve proved to be one of the leaders of our club through his determination, his energy, and his commitment to the Canadiens’ organization. As for Aaron Downey, we soon realized when we acquired him in January that he is a player who brings contagious leadership as well as an important physical presence on the ice.''
The 27-year-old Begin recorded 11 goals and 12 assists in 76 games for the Canadiens this season.
The 31-year-old Downey was acquired through the NHL waivers from St. Louis on January 23, 2006. He played in 25 games with the Canadiens in 2005-06, registered one goal and four asssits with 50 penalty minutes. He also had two goals in 17 games with the Blues.
Murray, 23, finished the 2005-06 season with six points in 36 games (five goals, one assist) and 44 penalty minutes. He also played in 26 games with the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs, recording two points (1-1-2) and 46 penalty minutes. The Regina native was acquired from the New York Rangers on September 30, 2005, in return for Marcel Hossa.