Stars sign Lehtonen to 5-year deal

The Dallas Stars have signed goaltender Kari Lehtonen to a five-year contract extension worth $29.5 million.

The deal announced Friday secures the eight-year veteran through the 2017-18 season.

The 28-year-old Lehtonen is coming off career bests in save percentage (.922) and goals-against average (2.33). He tied his career high with four shutouts. He was 32-22-4 and became the first Stars goalie to win seven straight games to start a season.

The No. 2 pick in the 2002 draft by Atlanta, Lehtonen is entering his fourth season.

The NHL season could be on hold, with a lockout looming Saturday when the collective bargaining agreement expires.