Gomez signs one year deal with Florida Panthers

FILE PHOTO - Scott Gomez is seen here during his days in Montreal. Gomez is returning to the Eastern Conference, with the Florida Panthers announcing Wednesday they've signed the 33-year-old to a one-year contract. Terms were not disclosed.

PHOTO CREDIT - Canadiens.com

Miami - July 31, 2013 - Scott Gomez is returning to the Eastern Conference, with the Florida Panthers announcing Wednesday they've signed the 33-year-old to a one-year contract. Terms were not disclosed.

"Scott is a veteran center who adds further depth to the middle of our lineup," general manager Dale Tallon said. "He is a quick and skilled forward with a wealth of hockey experience, including two Stanley Cup titles, who will be a leader for our younger players."

Gomez had at least 55 points in seven consecutive seasons from 2002-10, but has seen his production slip since then.

He was bought out by the Montreal Canadiens prior to last season and signed by the San Jose Sharks, where he had two goals and 15 points in 39 regular-season games. He added two assists in nine Stanley Cup Playoff games.

A first-round pick of the New Jersey Devils (No. 27) in the 1998 NHL Draft, Gomez won the Calder Trophy in 2000 after totaling 19 goals and 70 points in 82 games. He capped his rookie season by helping the Devils claim their second of three Stanley Cups.

Gomez posted career highs of 33 goals and 84 points with the Devils during the 2005-06 season.

In 941 career regular-season games with the Devils, New York Rangers, Canadiens and Sharks, the native of Anchorage, Alaska, has 171 goals and 701 points. He's added 29 goals and 101 points in 149 postseason games.