Blackhawks sign Alex Vlasic to 6-year extension

(Photo credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports)

Defenseman Alex Vlasic and the Chicago Blackhawks agreed on a six-year, $27.6 million contract extension through the 2029-30 season.

Vlasic could have become a restricted free agent on July 1.

"Alex made enormous strides this year and proved he is a legitimate top-four defenseman in the NHL," Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said Thursday. "In his first full season in