Brad Richards wasn't ready to analyze his new team just yet, only a few hours into his tenure with the Rangers.

But the highly-coveted, 31-year-old center, who signed a nine-year deal worth $60 million Saturday, does see similarities to his old team, the Lightning, who won a Stanley Cup under current Rangers coach John Tortorella in 2004.

"I see what Torts does and it works, I know that firsthand," Richards said. "I see how he's bringing that young team along and it kind of reminds me of what he did [in Tampa Bay]. It was the right fit for me."

Richards, the top-line center and power-play quarterback the Rangers desperately needed, is getting a contract that will count a reasonable $6.67 million annually against the salary cap but pay him $20 million over the first 12 months and $57 million in the first six years. It reportedly contains a no-movement clause for the length of the deal.

Richards, who played for the Dallas Stars for the past three full seasons, grew up in Prince Edwards Island, Canada and cited a desire to return East nearer to his family, a chance to play for an Original Six team and a reunion with Tortorella as factors in joining the Rangers.

Rangers general manager Glen Sather acknowledged Richards chose a "reduced rate" contract compared to offers from the Kings, Maple Leafs and Flames.