Scott Nichol Signs One-Year Deal

Scott Nichol has signed a new one-year contract to play with the St. Louis Blues in 2012-13. Nichol was on course to become an unrestricted free agent prior to the news that the Blues had elected to retain him. Nichol, known for his determination and physicality on the ice, played in 80 games for the Blues last season. The deal was reported by the team’s official site.

Again, the Blues have made a sensible decision with a pending free agent. In the great scheme of things, Nichol isn’t the most pressing issue in terms of free agency. He won’t answer the team’s need for a scorer and won’t provide any answers to the question of a top-4 defenseman. However, he can center the team’s grinding, or fourth, line and leaves it all out on the ice. These traits make him not only valuable on the ice but make his veteran experience just as valuable in the dressing room.

Nichol’s work ethic is nearly unparalleled. He is constantly working hard to win the puck back, using his relatively small size (5’9″, 180 lbs.) to the best of his ability. His signing may be viewed as a minor one but he is an important piece to have back in the mix for 2012-13.