The Columbus Blue Jackets agreed to a new contract with Seth Jones for six years worth $5.4 million a year. Jones could have been a restricted free agent. Rather than risk another NHL team signing him to an offer sheet, they kept him.
Jones is a key part of the Jackets’ future, especially on defense. He finished his third year. Jones was originally selected by the Nashville Predators in the 2013 NHL Draft. His first season he was effective scoring 6 goals and adding 19 assists for a total of 27 points. 2015 he continued that success with 8 goals and 19 assists for 27 points.
Last year he appeared in 40 games for the Nashville Predators, posting 1 goal and 10 assists. He was playing respectable hockey, but it wasn’t enough to keep him in Nashville. The Predators sent him to Columbus for center Ryan Johansen on January 6th. Jones picked up his play with 2 goals and 18 assists. The Jackets were dead last in the Metropolitan Division with a record of 34-40-8, 76 points and missed the playoffs.
Columbus knew how valuable Jones was to the future of the franchise. According to ESPN, Columbus Blue Jackets General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen said, “At 21, Seth is just beginning to tap into his potential as a player. He has everything you look for in a defenseman and is going to be a very important player and leader on our team for many years.”
This is a smart move. Jones can play the point on the power play. He can score from there or find his teammates helping them score. He is valuable on full strength situations and on the power play kill. On full strength Jones checks opponents so they won’t get into the Blue Jackets’ zone and uses the forecheck to poke the puck away. He can also block shots. On the power play kill he makes sure the opposing teams can’t set up their power play. Jones is an important skater for this team on defense. He will be a leader for the Jackets for years to come. Jones is hoping to bring a Cup back to Columbus.
Now that they have addressed their defense, Columbus must focus on offense. This is the only way they will be a competitive team. The next step for this team is to make the NHL playoffs next season.
What do you think of the Columbus Blue Jackets signing Seth Jones to a long term deal?
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