NHL Veteran Defenseman Signs With Swiss League

According to reports, free agent defenseman Sami Vatanen has signed on with the Swiss League and will be leaving the NHL.

Sami Vatanen lands in Switzerland. https://t.co/mCpZbVRGqv
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) September 27, 2021

Chris Johnston of Sportsnet was the first to report the news as the 30-year-old Vatanen leaves the NHL after not being given a rock solid offer he was looking for. Sounds like only professional tryouts were being discussed and Vatanen chose to leave for a little more job security this season. What happens after this season, so far, is unknown.

Last season with the New Jersey Devils and Dallas Stars, Vatanen recorded six points in 39 games and has certainly seen his production fall over the course of the past few seasons. It wasn't long ago, the Finland native was recording near 40-point seasons with the Anaheim Ducks.

So far in his NHL career, Vatanen has appeared in 473 games, recording 200 points. He's made $25.6 million in career earnings and this move to Europe doesn't necessarily close the book on a return to North America.

Photo credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Would love to see a last minute PTO or even a 1-year deal with Sami Vatanen for NYR. He played more than fine with 3rd pair minutes last season.

It might not make a ton of sense but depth-wise I'd rather have him playing on his off hand at LHD than Tinordi. pic.twitter.com/LAs1KeWU7L
— Rob Luker (@RLuker12) September 22, 2021