Amanda Kessel signs with New York Riveters

Well, the National Women's Hockey League's free agency period has certainly started off with a bang.

The New York Riveters, who finished in last place last season, are clearly aiming to compete this season. So far, they've signed both defenseman Kaleigh Fratkin and goalie Jaimie Leonoff from the Connecticut Whale as well as Amanda Kessel. Casual.

Kessel and the Rivs agreed to a $26,000 contract on Sunday, the first day of free agency. Kessel recently scored the game-winning goal for Minnesota in the women's NCAA National Championship game. During her collegiate career, she scored 248 points (108-140) in 127 games and was honored with the Patty Kazmaier Award in 2013. At the national level, she helped Team USA to win silver at the 2012 IIHF World Championships and gold in 2013. During the Sochi Olympics, she led the team in scoring with six points.

“I am beyond excited to join the New York Riveters and the NWHL next season,” Kessel said in the press release from the league. “It is a great opportunity to help the league continue to grow and be a future dream for young girls. The fact that little girls can now say they want to play in the NWHL is inspirational for me and the future of women's hockey.”

“I'm thrilled for a new opportunity and challenge,” Kessel continued. “New York is going to be a great spot for me. I'm a competitor and I love to win, so I hope to bring my experience and contribute to a winning team and culture.”

If today's activity is any indication, the free agency period is going to be a wild ride.