On Saturday, Kent Johnson re-signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets on a three-year contract worth a total of $5.4 million. Johnson, who has spent the entirety of his short NHL career with the same team since being drafted fifth overall in 2021, is looking to return from a torn labrum sustained late last season.
The Columbus Blue Jackets struggled last season, posting the worst record in the Metropolitan Division and missing the playoffs for the fourth straight year. Before the team could address their roster situation this offseason, they first had to hire a new coach, ultimately landing the services of Dean Evason.
With Evason now set to coach the team, and with the hope that Boone Jenner will be healthy next year, the Blue Jackets are looking to bounce back in the 2024-25 season. However, they are also preparing to part ways with Patrik Laine, who is in search of a fresh start.
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In the case of Johnson, his new three-year contract will keep him with the team through the 2026-27 season at an average annual value of $1.8 million per year. Given the Blue Jackets' struggles, fans were quick to react to the news, questioning Johnson's decision.
In response to the news, the NHL community weighed in:
"Imagine wanting to resign and play in Columbus lmao" - Another wrote
"A three year prison sentence would be a much more ideal option" - One joked
Many Columbus Blue Jackets fans were excited by the news of Kent Johnson resigning.
"That’s a steal for CBJ. He just needs a consistent string of games to get going" - One wrote
"KENT GOT PAID" - Another wrote
Others suggested that Kent Johnson still has room for improvement:
"Now he just needs to add strength to be an actual nhl player" - One wrote
Looking at the rest of the offseason for the Columbus Blue Jackets after resigning Kent Johnson
This offseason has been an interesting one for the Columbus Blue Jackets. While the team is hoping to improve their roster for a Stanley Cup Playoff run next year, their cap situation leaves GM Don Waddell without the freedom to pursue high-profile free agents.
The return of Boone Jenner will give the team a major lift, but they will probably lose Patrik Laine who has shown, that when he is healthy, can average nearly a point per game. After being cleared to return from the NHL's Player Assistance Program, Laine is likely to be traded this offseason.
The forward has expressed his desire for a fresh start, with the franchise reportedly looking to grant his wish. While a buyout seems unlikely to happen, Waddell revealed on TSN 1050 on Thursday that the Blue Jackets will work to find a suitable trade destination for Laine.
While this will impact the team's scoring, it also opens up the door for budding young stars like Kent Johnson to play a more integral role with the team going forward.
