Florida GM Jacques Martin signs long-term deal with Panthers

Jacques Martin gestures as he speaks during a news conference Monday, April 7, 2008, in Sunrise, Fla. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS/Wilfredo Lee

SUNRISE, Fla. - The Florida Panthers are locking up general manager Jacques Martin to a long-term deal.

The NHL team announced Friday the two sides have reached an agreement for Martin to remain as GM through the 2011-12 season.

Martin, 55, joined the Panthers organization four years ago as head coach and assumed general manager duties on Sept. 3, 2006. He has previously worked as a head coach with the Ottawa Senators and St. Louis Blues.

The Panthers were 11th in the Eastern Conference this season with a 38-35-9 record.