There appears to be one less defenceman available to teams looking to upgrade their blue line at the NHL Trade deadline.
Blueliner Andy Sutton, who was set to become a free agent at the end of the season, has agreed to a one-year contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers.
TSN Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie reports that the deal will see Sutton make $1.5 million for the 2012-13 season with $250,000 in games played bonuses.
"Andy really likes the team and the city," Sutton's agent Pat Morris told the Edmonton Journal in a text message. "He's very pleased with staying. He knows there was interest trade-wise, but had the opportunity to stay and welcomed Edmonton's commitment.
"He loves the youth on the team and wants to be part of a good finish this year and a playoff run next year."
Sutton has three goals and six assists, along with 56 penalty minutes, in 33 games with Edmonton this season. He was acquired in a trade with Anaheim last July in exchange for defenceman Kurtis Foster.
