Paul Mara is leaving New York and signing with the Montreal Canadiens. Financial information hasn’t been released, but it is a 1 year deal. Mara is a big, solid defenceman who recorded 21 points in 76 games last season, while recording 94 PIMs. The 6’4″ Mara joins another large free agent signing, Hal Gill (6’7″), to give the Canadiens some much need size to counter the pint size signings of Brian Gionta and Mike Cammalleri, and the trade for Scott Gomez.
Mara wil be going his 5th NHL team (previously with Tampa, Phoenix, Boston, and NY Rangers). This 10 year veteran has played in 639 games, registering 239 points (63 goals, 176 assists), and recording 640 penalty minutes.