The Elmira Jackals have signed former Buffalo Sabres captain and longtime NHL defenseman Craig Rivet to a standard player contract, the team announced on Monday. Rivet is expected to be in the Jackals' lineup on Friday night at First Arena when they host the Trenton Titans in the 2011-2012 season opener.

Click here for video of Rivet and Jackals head coach Pat Bingham talking to the media following Monday's skate.

In 923 career NHL games, Rivet has scored 50 goals and added 187 assists for 237 points.

"We are very excited to sign Craig and give our fans the opportunity to watch such an accomplished and talented player skate at First Arena this season," Jackals general manager Robbie S. Nichols said. "This is a huge signing for the Elmira Jackals."

"Craig's experience and leadership qualities are invaluable to any team," Bingham said. "His work ethic will be a great example for our young players who are looking to advance in hockey."

Rivet, who most recently skated with the Columbus Blue Jackets in the second half of 2010-2011, spent the majority of the last three seasons with the Sabres, serving as the team's captain during his entire stint with the club beginning in 2008-2009. In 165 games with Buffalo, Rivet posted four goals and 38 assists for 42 points.

From 2006-2008, Rivet played with the San Jose Sharks, scoring six goals and adding 37 assists for 43 points over two seasons. His career-high 30 assists in 2007-2008 led Sharks defensemen.

Outside of the NHL lockout season of 2004-2005, Rivet skated with the Montreal Canadiens full-time from 1997-2007 and served as an alternate captain with the team beginning in the 2001-2002 campaign. In 653 games with Montreal, Rivet contributed 39 goals, including a career-best eight in 2001-2002, and 112 assists for 151 points.

Rivet participated in 154 games with the AHL's Fredericton Canadiens before becoming an NHL regular, notching 72 points (13g-59a).

As an amateur, Rivet skated three seasons in the OHL with the Kingston Frontenacs, totaling 164 points (36g-128a). He was Montreal's third-round selection in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft.

To purchase tickets to see the Jackals' home opener this Friday, call (607) 734-PUCK (7825), visit the First Arena Box Office, or click here to select your seats and print your tickets from home.

JACKALS HOCKEY: GET JACKED!

UPCOMING FIRST ARENA EVENTS

2011-2012 HOME OPENER
Elmira vs. Trenton
Friday, October 14
7:35 p.m.

Elmira vs. Trenton
Saturday, October 15
7:35 p.m.

Elmira vs. Florida
Friday, October 21
7:35 p.m.