The Detroit Red Wings signed Jakub Kindl, their top defence prospect, to a three-year, US$2.65-million extension that kicks in after his current contract expires at the end of this season.

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Ottawa 67's Julian talbot gets taken down by Kitchener Rangers Jakub Kindl but still manages to keep his eye on the puck and make a pass.

Photograph by : Ottawa Citizen

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"With a player you want to keep in your system, you want to get him signed up and continue with the development,'' Wings assistant general manager Jim Nill said.

"He's played two years pro (in Grand Rapids). His first year he struggled. Last year, he had a good bounce back year and played in the AHL All-Star game.''

Barring injuries, Kindl, 22, will spend one more season with the Griffins.

He's out of minor-league options beginning in 2010-11, when the one-way contract (NHL salary only) valued at $883,000 per season kicks in.

Kindl has good size (six-foot-three, 210 pounds) and offensive skills. He's mobile, moves the puck well and has a hard shot.

He is projected to be a future power-play quarterback in the NHL.

HOSSA SURGERY

The Chicago Blackhawks say recently signed right wing Marian Hossa will undergo surgery today on his right shoulder to repair a small tear in his rotator cuff.

Team physician Dr. Michael Terry said in a statement the recovery usually takes about four months, meaning the ex-Red Wing probably won't be ready for the Hawks' opener against the Florida Panthers Oct. 2.

The Blackhawks knew about the injury when they signed the five-time All-Star to a 12-year, US$62.8 million contract July 1 and were hoping to avoid an operation.