Flames avoid arbitration with Colborne, re-sign him to two-year deal

The Flames had just one restricted free agent opt for arbitration, and now that isn't an issue at all as the Flames and Joe Colborne have reached a two-year deal worth an annual average value of $1.275 million. His previous contract was a one-year, $600k deal.

Make that 1.275 Million per season for Colborne..

— Roger Millions (@RogMillions) July 22, 2014

Colborne's contract makes him the sixth highest paid forward on the Flames, just under Mikael Backlund and above Brandon Bollig. It's similar to Backlund's current deal, if a little cheaper.

The former first round pick finally broke into the league last year, scoring 10 goals and 28 points over 80 games in his rookie season for his hometown team. It was a season where he bounced all over the lineup, going from a top six centre to the fourth line, and eventually being placed on Sean Monahan's wing to give him playing time. He also became a go-to guy for Bob Hartley in shootouts, scoring four goals on nine attempts, good for second on the team. He participated in all but one of Calgary's shootouts, leading the team alongside Jiri Hudler. The Flames were 7-3 in shootouts last season.

At 6'5" and reportedly 220 lbs., Colborne is one of the biggest players on the Flames' roster, but the 24-year-old is still learning how to use his size. It's an asset that will come in handy assuming he continues to play on the right wing, a position the Flames are desperately lacking in, and one Colborne looked much better in when he switched.

The remaining Flames RFAs to be signed are Lance Bouma, Joni Ortio, and Mark Cundari. None of them opted for arbitration.