Bruins sign veteran Brian Gionta

BUFFALO — The Boston Bruins signed forward Brian Gionta to a one-year, one-way deal with $700,000, the team announced Sunday afternoon.

Gionta, 39, served as captain of Team USA at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang. The former Boston College standout retired from the NHL prior to this season. He spent the 2016-17 season with the Buffalo Sabres and played in all 82 games with 15 goals and 20 assists for 35 points.

Gionta has played in 1,006 career NHL games with Buffalo, Montreal and New Jersey from 2001-17, recording 289 goals and 299 assists for 588 points. He also has plenty of Stanley Cup playoff experience and helped the Devils win a championship in 2003. In 112 postseason games, he has 32 goals and 36 assists for 68 points.

Also, the Bruins signed Chris Breen to a one-year, two-way contract through the 2017-18 season worth $650,000 at the NHL level. Breen has been placed on waivers for the purpose of assignment to Providence.

BSJ analysis

Gionta is a low-risk bet and adds depth to a young organization. Plus, there were no acquisition costs. Gionta is a true pro and will be a solid addition to the room. For the Bruins, he would add depth in a bottom-six role and could be another veteran voice off the ice.