'Couldn't be more excited:' Chicago Blackhawks sign Jordin Tootoo to 1-year deal

RankinInlet, Nunavut's Jordin Tootoowill be back playing in the National Hockey League next season.

On Tuesday, the 33-year-old Tootoo signed a one-year deal with the Chicago Blackhawks, reportedly worth $750,000.

"I couldn't be more excited to put on that jersey," Tootoo told host Robert Kabvitok of CBC North'sTusaajaksat.

"They're contenders every year for the [Stanley]Cup. Every player's dream is to win the Cup."

This will be Tootoo'sfourth team in the NHL, after previous stints with the New Jersey Devils, the Detroit Red Wings, and the Nashville Predators, who drafted Tootoo98th overall in 2001.

Tootoo said he had been speaking with the Blackhawks for about a week before signing the contract. He also spoke with some current members of the team, including captain Jonathan Toews.

"I know my role," he said. "They know how I play. I can't wait to lace 'em up."

The only Inuk player in the NHL, Tootoo also had kind words for his home territory of Nunavut and community of Rankin Inlet.

"Nunavut's always been behind my back. Truly honoured to be a part of Nunavut," he said.

"Thanks to all my supporters in the North."

Tootoobecame an unrestricted free agent on July 1 after spending the last two seasons in New Jersey. Last year, Tootoo talliedfour goals andninepointsin 66 games with the Devils.

He averaged 11:31 of ice time every game, led the team with 102 penalty minutes,set a career-high with five power play points and a career-low with a minus-26 rating.