Veteran winger Justin Williams couldn’t stay away from the game for too long. Williams, who decided to take a break from hockey following the 2019/20 NHL season, signed a deal with Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday.
According to Hurricanes’ official statement, Williams signed a one-year deal which will earn him $700,000 in base salary. The 38-year-old will also be able to make an additional $1.3 million in bonuses.
“We’ve been in frequent contact with Justin over the last few months regarding his status,” said Canes’ general manager Don Waddell. “We’re thrilled that he has decided to return to playing, and we’re confident that adding him to our group will help us both on and off the ice.”
Williams’ first stint with Carolina Hurricanes was between 2005 and 2008 when he helped the team win their last Stanley Cup. He returned to the franchise ahead of 2017/18 and played all 164 games in two following seasons, contributing with 39 goals and 65 assists.
Despite remaining productive even in his 18th year in the league, Williams was unsure about his future in NHL after he became a free agent this past offseason. Then in September, he “decided to step away from the game,” saying he will only return to Hurricanes if he comes back to pro hockey.
Throughout his career, Williams also played with Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, and Wahington Capitals. He has three Stanley Cup wins, and one All-Star appearance.
