Ryan Johansen and the Columbus Blue Jackets finally agreed on a contract offer for the forward. The contract is for three years, worth $12 million. The dispute between the front office, and Johansen, was that he was not getting paid enough. With this new offer, hopefully no more drama arises.
Johansen, who was the breakout star last season for Columbus, had a total of 33 goals, and 63 points during the 2013-2014 season. Johansen was the number four overall pick in the 2010 NHL Draft.
The drama at the end of the season went through all of summer camp and almost to the beginning of the season. With only two days until the puck drops, the Columbus fans are pleased with this announcement.
Johansen will eligible for arbitration at the end of his contract which extends into the 2016-2017 season. For the $12 million deal, one would think that the forward would get paid an average $4 million per year. For the first two years, the 22 year old forward will get paid $3 million per season. In the final year, $6 million will be given to Johansen.
In the third year of Johansens' contract, the Columbus Blue Jackets will have good idea of whether or not they will keep him on board. Already losing Boone Jenner and Nathan Horton due to injuries/surgeries, this deal could not have come at a much better time than now. Ryan Johansen can join the team immediately, and foreshadow his starting center position on the first string when the Blue Jackets take on the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday.