The Carolina Hurricanes have re-signed forward Derek Ryan to a one-year contract worth $1.425 million, general manager Ron Francis announced Monday.

"Derek proved he belonged in the NHL last season," Francis said. "He brings skill and versatility to our lineup and sets an example for our younger players with his character and determination off the ice."

The 30-year-old registered career highs in goals (11), assists (18), and points (29) last season, and was a finalist for the Masterton Trophy, awarded to the player who best exemplifies qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to the game.

Ryan was not drafted by an NHL club, and didn't crack the league until 2015 after signing with the Hurricanes as a free agent. Immediately prior to that, he was named MVP of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) in 2014-15.

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