Ward
IN PHOTO: May 8, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Washington Capitals right wing Joel Ward (42) interferes with New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) in front of New York Rangers center Derek Stepan (21) and the referees rule no goal during the second period of game five of the second round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. REUTERS/Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The San Jose Sharks have acquired Joel Ward via free agency signing the right winger to a three-year deal worth $9.825 million.

The team made the official announcement last Friday and ESPN confirmed the terms of the contract. Ward, who is known for his clutch play in the playoffs, was considered one of the top free agents in the NHL offseason after four season playing for the Washington Capitals.

Doug Wilson, the general manager for the Sharks was excited about their free agent signing and adding a veteran like Ward.

"Joel is a quality veteran player who can score but also plays an extremely hard-nosed brand of hockey," Wilson said in an official statement. "He meshes well with our core group of forwards and has a strong track record of playing his best hockey at crucial times of the season."

The 34-year-old Ward also played for the Minnesota Wild (2006-2007) and Nashville Predators (2008 to 2011) and will be entering his ninth NHL season. For his career, Ward is credited 220 points with 97 goals and 123 assists. He has also represented the Canadian national team in 2014.

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