The NHL's Utah Mammoth announced Tuesday that they have signed defenseman John Marino to an eight-year contract extension worth $54 million.
Marino, who is 29 years old, recorded a career-largest total of 36 points last season, consisting of four goals and 32 assists across 80 appearances. The 6-foot-1 defenseman has played the last two seasons with the Mammoth.
Mammoth president Chris Armstrong stated that the team values Marino's long-term commitment to Utah and his daily contributions to the group.
Armstrong noted that Marino's professionalism, competitiveness, stability, and puck-moving ability on the blue line make him an invaluable cornerstone for the franchise.
Mammoth general manager Bill Armstrong said the team views Marino as a foundational piece of their future, highlighting his ability to control the game from the back end and his play in transition.
Armstrong added that the team trusts Marino to make right decisions in critical situations and noted that he brings a level of calmness under pressure that is necessary from veteran players.
Marino was a sixth-round pick by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2015 NHL Draft and previously played for the Pittsburgh Penguins and New Jersey Devils. He has recorded 157 points through his first 443 NHL appearances.
