"Huge fail by Fitz" "Wanted to go to the better team": NHL fans react as Blue Jackets sign Kevin Labanc from under Devils' noses

Forward Kevin Labanc has signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets after being placed on waivers by the New Jersey Devils, insider Frank Seravalli reports. Labanc had initially signed a PTO with New Jersey, and despite having a great training camp, the Devils placed him on waivers due to salary cap concerns. Then, amid a flurry of injuries, the Blue Jackets claimed Kevin Labanc, signing him to a one-year, $775K deal.

The unusual circumstances surrounding Kevin Labanc's move to Columbus have prompted a variety of reactions from fans. Here’s a look at some of the choice comments from fans across the league.

“Would have cut Bastain and made room for Labanc. Huge fail by fitz,” a fan said.

“Even more rare giving a guy a PTO and he basically has no chance to make the team because he obviously did deserve to make it,” another fan said.

“And you think if they did go somewhere else they’d at least be getting a little more money like 900k or something lol,” one fan said.

Meanwhile, some fans felt Labanc made the right choice by signing with Columbus. Here’s a look at how these fans reacted.

“He wanted to go to the better team,” a fan said.

“I mean nobody wants to play for the Devils anyways,” another fan said.

“Blue jackets get bailed,” one fan said.

Kevin Labanc and the Blue Jackets will open the season on October 10 against the Minnesota Wild. Fans will be looking forward to another exciting season despite the heartbreaking loss of winger Johnny Gaudreau.

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"He has an excellent shot and playmaking ability": Blue Jackets’ GM Don Waddell praises Kevin Labanc

Kevin Labanc signed a one-year deal after spending his entire career with the San Jose Sharks. In San Jose, he faced setbacks that ultimately cost him a multi-year deal. Eager to revive his career, he joined the Devils on a PTO.

The Blue Jackets have now offered Labanc another shot at becoming a full-time NHLer.

Blue Jackets’ GM Don Waddell had this to say about the 28-year-old winger, as quoted by NHL.com (per NHL.com):

“Kevin Labanc has been a productive offensive player in this league for several years. He has an excellent shot and playmaking ability and given his character we believe he will fit in very well with our group.”

At this point in his career, Labanc could slide into the Blue Jackets bottom six, offering depth scoring, especially with captain Boone Jenner possibly sidelined to start the season. The deal gives Labanc an opportunity to rekindle his career in Columbus, allowing him to continue showing he’s a productive player, as Waddell pointed out.