Defenseman Jason Smith has signed a two-year contract with the Ottawa Senators, bringing some hard-nosed leadership to the NHL club.

Captain of the Philadelphia Flyers last season and of the Edmonton Oilers for the five previous NHL campaigns, Smith's deal is reported to be worth $5.2 million.

The 14-year veteran had just one goal and nine assists last season but blocked a team high 204 shots and dished out 142 hits.

In 945 career games, Smith has 40 goals and 128 assists, and is one of only three players to block more than 600 shots since the start of the 2005-06 season.