Canadiens sign free agent D Kyle Klubertanz

The Canadiens' announcement of the signing of Kyle Klubertanz:

Canadiens general manager Pierre Gauthier announced Thursday the signing of free agent defenseman Kyle Klubertanz to a one-year contract for the 2010-11 season.

The 24-year old Klubertanz is a 6’01” 180 lbs defenseman who hails from Madison, WI. In 2009-10, he played with Djurgardens of the Swedish Elite League. Klubertanz was tied for second in scoring on his team, first amongst defensemen with 31 points in 55 games (12 goals, 19 assists).

Drafted in the third round, 74th overall by the Anaheim Mighty Ducks in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, Klubertanz graduated from the University of Wisconsin’ Badgers of the WCHA. In four seasons with the Badgers from 2004 to 2008 he recorded 72 points (12 goals, 60 assists), and served 206 penalty minutes.

Klubertanz also played with TPS Turku of the Finnish Elite League in 2008-09 and with the Portland Pirates of the American Hockey League in 2007-08.

Here is Hockey's Future scouting report on Kyle Klubertanz:

Talent Analysis

A smooth-skating blueliner with plenty of offensive potential, Klubertanz also has a fiesty attitude. Despite his average size, he doesn't back down and plays with a chip on his shoulder. His greatest attribute is his puckmoving skills. He also sees the ice extremely well and is excellent at reading the play. His time in the college system should be devoted to developing his potential further as well as improving his defensive play. He also needs to get stronger to continue to play his style.

A third round draft choice in 2004 and a wizard at moving the puck, Klubertanz is still very much a project. He has plenty of offensive potential and could be a future powerplay quarterback if all goes well. His size may hold him back from being a top pairing blueliner, but his drive and hard work could ensure that he does get a regular roster spot.

Future

Originally appearing to be a potential steal in the third round of the 2004 draft, Klubertanz had a snake-bit season with Wisconsin and will be looking to re-establish himself in his senior year. The Ducks defensive pipeline looks vastly different compared to three years ago and if Klubertanz can't rebound, he may find himself without a contract offer after graduation.