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Artem Anisimov Thrilled By Trade To Blackhawks

By Chris Emma--

(CBS) With the blockbuster deal of Brandon Saad in the rear-view mirror, the Blackhawks have moved on and committed themselves to Artem Anisimov, the 27-year-old center acquired from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

On Wednesday, Anisimov was awarded a five-year extension worth a reported $22.75 million, which comes out to $4.55 annually and is a deal beginning in the 2016-'17 season. Blackhawks general manager Stan Bowman admitted he had long coveted the services of Anisimov and was thrilled to add him.

With the newly worked contract extension, Ansimov gets security in Chicago.

"To sign for five years in Chicago, it's big for me," Anisimov  said by conference call Wednesday. "It's exciting to come play for the Chicago Blackhawks."

Chicago acquired Anisimov with the hopes that he can take on the second-line center role, one that could eventually be taken over by a young player like Teuvo Teravainen or Phillip Danault.

Last season, Anisimov tallied seven goals and 20 assists in 52 games with Columbus. Now, he'll likely be centering a line that includes Patrick Kane.

"It's a very good team, very good, talented players," Anisimov said. "They play the game so well. The past six years, three Stanley Cups, it's very good. I'm really excited to join this team, and I look forward to playing."

In trading Saad and two prospects, the Blackhawks also acquired talented 20-year-old forward Marko Dano, plus forwards Jeremy Morin and Corey Tropp. In comparison to signing Saad at the price he desired, the move opened up nearly $1 million in cap room for the 2015-'16 season, all while stocking depth.

However, the Blackhawks' offseason is only beginning, with more moves sure to follow.

Follow Chris on Twitter @CEmma670.

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