Alex Semin agrees to one year, $7 million deal with Carolina; Pens never showed serious interest, agents say

The Carolina Hurricanes who emerged this week as the most likely suitor for Alex Semin, have officially struck a deal with Semin, agreeing to a one year, $7 million contract with the 28 year old winger.

Semin who was looking to match or exceed his 2011-2012 salary if he were to accept a one year deal, gets a little raise after making $6.7 million last season.

“We have done a lot of research about Alexander, and discussions about his fit with our team have included people at many different levels of our organization, including players, coaches and staff,” Canes GM Jim Rutherford said in a released statement. “What’s been clear throughout this process was his commitment to wanting to play in the NHL, and compete against the world’s best players.

“Alexander’s elite skill level and ability to score from the wing fill an important need on the ice, and we hope that a fresh start in Carolina will serve both Alexander and our team well.”

Carolina’s top-9 now includes the likes of Eric Staal, Jordan Staal, Jeff Skinner, Alex Semin, Jussi Jokinen, Tuomo Ruutu, Chad Larose, Jiri Tlusty and Anthony Stewart. A very good mix in the top-9.

According to Semin’s camp, last time Penguins spoke with them was during week of July 9 – July 16. Been a while. Agents Mark Gandler and Todd Diamond both confirmed to Inside Pittsburgh Sports that Pittsburgh “never” showed “serious” interest.