ST. LOUIS (KMOX) — Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong announced today the club has signed forward Jonathan Cheechoo to a one-year contract. The former Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy winner for the most goals in the 2005-06 season is looking to bounce back after a season in the AHL.

Cheechoo, who turns 31 today, spent last season with the American Hockey League’s Worcester Sharks, an affiliate of the San Jose Sharks organization, tallying 47 points with 18 goals and 29 assists in 55 games.

The 6’1, 200-pound forward has also appeared in 501 NHL games over seven seasons between the San Jose Sharks and Ottawa Senators compiling 305 points with 170 goals and 135 assists along with 324 penalty minutes. The Moose Factory, Ontario native was originally drafted by San Jose in the second round, 29th overall, of the 1998 NHL Entry Draft.

Following the NHL lockout in the 2005-06 season, Cheechoo had his best season scoring 56 goals, which was a franchise record for the Sharks and led the entire league.

After a decline in his offensive production, Cheechoo was traded to the Ottawa Senators in a deal that involved Dany Heatley in 2009. That following February and later in June, Cheechoo was placed on waivers by the Senators. He wound up in Dallas, but was released after two preseason games.

The Blues likely have Cheechoo targeted for their AHL affiliate in Peoria because of their depth at right wing.

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