The Colorado Rapids have locked up one of the best goalkeepers in MLS for years to come, re-signing Joe Cannon to a multi-year deal Wednesday.
Cannon was the subject of trade rumors this offseason, including one that would have sent him to the Kansas City Wizards on the day of the MLS SuperDraft, but the Rapids apparently thought better of it and moved to retain Cannon.
"I'm very happy to have this deal inked and want to thank Major League Soccer, the Colorado Rapids and my agent, Ron Waxman for making it happen," Cannon said. "I'm looking forward to continue building the foundation of the team and helping the Rapids get to the next level by giving this franchise their first MLS championship."
Cannon, 31, is a two-time MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, having won the award in 2002 and 2004. He ranks in the top five all-time among MLS goalkeepers in several categories, including saves, shutouts, wins, goals-against average and save percentage.
Last season, Cannon fought through an abdominal injury most of the season, but still registered a 1.20 goals-against average and eight shutouts. After seeing his 56-game starting streak broken on Sept. 17, Cannon returned to action in the final game of the regular season and came up big for the Rapids in the second leg of their Western Conference Semifinal Series against FC Dallas, turning back the Hoops in overtime to guide the Rapids to the Western Conference Championship.
Cannon made his 2006 debut last weekend in a 5-2 defeat to Houston Dynamo.
Jason Halpin is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
