Goaltender Jimmy Howard signs extension with Red Wings

DETROIT, April 16 (UPI) -- Goaltender Jimmy Howard agreed to a six-year contract extension with the Detroit Red Wings, the NHL team announced Tuesday.

Howard, 29, was drafted by the Red Wings in 2003 and has played with Detroit since the 2009-10 season. The new deal, worth a reported $31.8 million, will link him to the team through the 2018-19 season.

"Jimmy is one of our most valuable players who is entering the prime of his career. He gives a chance to win every night," Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland said.

Howard is 17-12-6 this season with a 2.31 goals against average. He's 127-66-25 in his career a 2.39 GAA for his career.