Penguins Sign Orpik; Malkin Extends; Hossa, Ruutu Leave Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins announced two big signings on Wednesday, but lost two players to free agency.

The team announced that it has signed Evgeni Malkin to a five-year contract extension starting with the 2009-10 season.

"We are very excited to have Evgeni signed to a long-term contract," said General Manager Ray Shero. "This is an important signing for our franchise and the city of Pittsburgh and we commend Evgeni on his commitment to the future of the franchise and the city. This signing continues to ensure the young core of this team can stay intact for years to come."

And the team announced late Wednesday afternoon that it signed Brooks Orpik to a six-year contract worth about $3.5 million per year.

That news came shortly after the Penguins learned that they lost their top priority in free agency, Marian Hossa.

The Detroit Red Wings signed Hossa to a one-year deal worth $7.4 million.

Jarkko Ruutu signed a deal with the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday.

Hossa and Ruutu were the latest in a string of free agents to sign with other teams.

Other Penguins losses include: Ryan Malone, Ty Conklin, Gary Roberts and Adam Hall.

On Tuesday, the Pens re-signed free agents Pascal Dupuis and Mark Eaton.

The 29-year-old Dupuis came to the Penguins in a trading deadline deal from Atlanta, along with star winger Marian Hossa.

Eaton had surgery to repair a torn knee ligament in January, but is expected to be ready for training camp.

The Penguins also signed free agent forward Mark Godard to a three-year contract. He's an enforcer-type, which probably signals the end of Georges Laraque's career in Pittsburgh.

Stay with Channel 11 News and WPXI.com for more details on Penguins player moves.

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