Arizona's trade gamble pays off in a major way on Wednesday.

The Arizona Coyotes took a risk when they made a trade to acquire the rights of soon to be unrestricted free agent Alex Goligoski from the Dallas Stars, but it has paid off big time.

After a two day visit with the Coyotes Goligoski has determined he will not become a free agent, and instead has committed to a five year deal with the Coyotes. Newly hired general manager John Chayka released the following statement.

"We are thrilled to sign Alex to a long-term contract," said Chayka. "Alex is a great skater and a smart, efficient defenseman who moves the puck well and makes his teammates better. He will help solidify our defense and support the growth of our young players. He will be a great addition to our team and we welcome him and his wife Amanda to the pack."

Unsurprisingly Goligoski says he's thrilled to be a Coyote, and after the sell job they did to get him to forgo free agency, he's probably being completely genuine in his statement.

"I am very happy to join the Coyotes," said Goligoski. "Arizona is a great place to live and play and I'm excited to join an up-and-coming team that has a ton of talent and a very bright future."

The Coyotes did not disclose the financial details of the deal, but not long after the official announcement TSN insider Bob McKenzie revealed that the five year deal carries an average annual value of $5.475 million.

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