The Columbus Blue Jackets can check off their biggest offseason priority, as the team announced today that they’ve agreed to terms with pending restricted free agent defenseman Seth Jones.
DONE DEAL!@seth_jones3 signed to a six-year contract extension: https://t.co/jy7EFWim5g #CBJ pic.twitter.com/jaiTqmQ2lZ
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) June 29, 2016
Columbus acquired Jones in January via a blockbuster trade that sent forward Ryan Johansen to the Nashville Predators in what was a swap of very promising young talent. Jones, 21, played 41 games in Columbus, recording two goals and 20 total points. Prior to joining the Blue Jackets, he tallied one goal and 11 points through 40 games with Nashville.
Jones’ new six-year deal carries a cap hit of $5.4 million annually, a fair price tag considering his age and potential. It also contains a limited no-trade clause in years five and six, which he can provide 10 teams he will not accept a trade to.
According to CapFriendly.Com, the Blue Jackets now sit at $72,957,143 in salary spent, leaving $42,857 in useable cap space. By agreeing to terms with Jones on a long-term deal prior to July 1, they avoided the risk of another team extending an offer sheet in an attempt to pry Jones from Columbus or drive up his cost.
