Ducks sign Kesler to six-year extension

Financial terms were not released, but according to the Orange County Register, Kesler's contract is worth $41.25 million with an average annual value of $6.875 million through the 2021-22 season.

"I think it's tough to say one point that made me part of the group," Kesler told reporters on a conference call on Wednesday. "I think it evolved as the year went on.

"I felt more comfortable with voicing my own opinion and just battling with the guys night in and night out. You become a family. I definitely feel a part of the core group now."

Kesler had 20 goals and 47 points in 81 regular season games last season and seven goals and 13 points in 16 Stanley Cup playoff games as the Ducks reached the Western Conference Finals before losing in seven to the eventual champion Chicago Blackhawks.

The 30-year-old Kesler was selected in the first round (number 23 overall) of the 2003 National Hockey League Draft by the Canucks, and has 202 goals, 440 points and 669 penalty minutes from 736 games.