Raleigh, NC (Best E Casino) - The Carolina Hurricanes rewarded forward Patrick Eaves on Wednesday with a three-year contract.

Eaves is set to earn $1.1 million next season, $1.4 million in 2009-2010 and $1.7 million for 2010-11.

"Patrick is an important part of our forward corps," said Carolina general manager Jim Rutherford. "He battled through some injuries this past season but we are looking forward to having him back and healthy this fall."

The 24-year-old came to the Hurricanes from Ottawa in a February 11 four- player deal, compiling one goal and four assists in 11 contests. For the season, Eaves had five goals and 15 points in 37 games while missing significant time at the end of the regular season due to shoulder surgery.

Entering his fourth NHL season, the former Boston College product has tallied 39 goals and 76 points over 168 games with Ottawa and Carolina.