Predators sign Franson to $1.6 million contract

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Nashville Predators have signed defenseman Cody Franson to a two-year, $1.6 million contract.

The 23-year-old Sicamous, British Columbia, native posted 21 points in 61 games and had three game-winning goals with the Predators last season. He played in four of Nashville's six 2010 postseason games.

The 6-foot-5, 213-pound Franson was Nashville's third-round choice and 79th pick overall in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. He spent two seasons with the AHL Milwaukee Admirals, and was named to the AHL All-Rookie Team in 2007-08.