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New deal for Oilers' Potter
By
Robert Tychkowski, QMI Agency
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  Edmonton Oilers Ryan Jones and teammates celebrate Cory Potter's goal against the Vancouver Canucks during the third period of their NHL game in Vancouver, British Columbia, December 26, 2011. (REUTERS/Ben Nelms)
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If Corey Potter’s New Year’s Resolution, after five long years of waiting for somebody to notice him in the minors, was to finally establish himself as a full time NHLer, mission accomplished.
Took nine days.
Oilers general manager Steve Tambellini, who saw enough of the 28-year-old defenceman in half a season to know he wants him around here longer, started courting Potter on Jan. 1 and signed him to a two year, one-way contract on Monday.
“We’ve been going back and forth a little bit but, in the last week or so, it heated up and we got it done,” said the 6-foot-3, 206 pound feel good story of training camp. “I’m pretty excited about it. It’s been a whirlwind. I’ve been waiting for so many years to get an opportunity like this; and then to start the year here and be given the chance I’ve had, it’s been so great.
“Signing an extension is icing on the cake.”
Potter toiled in the AHL for what seemed like forever before Tom Renney, who knew him from his days in the New York Rangers organization, offered him a tryout. He’ll make $750,000 and $800,000 in the new deal.
“We’ve had a good relationship and we’ve known each other for quite a while. He was pulling to get me here to Edmonton, and I’m so appreciative of the opportunity he’s given me.
“I’m glad that I could take the ropes and go with it, so it’s been a great experience.
“In the next couple years, it’s going to be fun to be part of it and watch this team grow.”
ROBERT.TYCHKOWSKI@Sunmedia.ca
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