Lindell, 23, posted 18 points (6-12=18) in 73 games played for Dallas during the 2016-17 regular season, his first full season in the NHL. He finished second on the team by averaging 21:52 of time on ice per game and his +8 plus/minus rating finished third. Additionally, he finished second on the team with 119 blocked shots and tied for fifth with 93 hits.

In his career, Lindell has played 77 regular-season games over the span of two seasons with Dallas and has posted 18 points (6-12=18). The blueliner has spent parts of each of his past three seasons playing for Dallas' American Hockey League affiliate, the Texas Stars. In 80 games played with Texas, he has tallied 44 points (14-30=44).

"Esa displayed great composure during his first season in the NHL and we look forward to his continued development as a top player on our defense," said Nill.

Lindell has represented Finland on a number of occasions, including the 2014 World Junior Championship, where he helped Finland win gold, the 2015 World Championship, where he was named one of Finland's top three players, and the 2016 World Championship, where Finland won silver.

The 6-foot-3, 215-pound native of Vantaa, Finland was originally selected by Dallas in the third round (74th overall) of the 2012 NHL Draft.