The Columbus Blue Jackets joined the college free agent signing party and added forward Sam Vigneault. The Clarkson Junior will forgo his senior season to join the Jackets organization.
March signals the end of college hockey season for most teams and the time when undrafted players can sign with professional clubs. Some of the big names still remain out there but the Columbus Blue Jackets got their man this week.
According to Bob McKenzie of TSN, Sam Vigneault will join the franchise following three years at Clarkson University. He will start on an amateur tryout contract that will last the remainder of the year. Then, his two year entry level contract will kick in. Vigneault will join the Cleveland Monsters and should make his AHL debut soon.
CBJ working to finalize two-year entry-level contract for 6-foot-5 college UFA F Sam Vigneault of Clarkson, who had 12G and 36P in 39GP.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) March 16, 2017
When deal gets done, expectation is Vigneault will go to Lake Erie (AHL) on ATO, 2 year EL contract kicks in next season. Would forgo sr yr.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) March 16, 2017
The 21 year old prospect hails from Baie-Comeau, Quebec. Vigneault is a big, physical center. He stands at 6’5″ and is over 200 pounds. His scoring at Clarkson has progressed nicely from 13 points his freshman year, 26 his sophomore campaign and finished this season with 12 goals and 24 assist. He is an all around center and can contribute both offensively and defensively.
Vigneault has been closely followed by the Blue Jacket organization for some time. John Tortorella even made a trip to Postdam this season to see Vigneault according to Cap Carey of the Watertown Daily Times.
Columbus Blue Jackets coach John Tortorello was at tonight's game pic.twitter.com/jikULAhIoB
— Cap Carey (@Cap_Carey) March 4, 2017
Sam Vigneault was also invited to the Columbus Blue Jackets 2016 Development Camp. He was one of six free agents invited to the camp and he clearly impressed the staff.
From College to Cleveland
Sam Vigneault will join the Cleveland Monsters as they fight to get back to the Calder Cup Playoffs to defend their title. The Monsters will play 11 of their last 16 at home as they try to climb three spots in the standings to make the playoffs.
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Vigneault doesn’t come from a heralded junior program in Quebec and wasn’t highly sought after before going to Clarkson but has matured nicely. His size and style of play should help him in Cleveland. Expectations are low but Jarmo has done a masterful job at finding diamonds in the rough.
Congrats Sam and welcome to the Columbus Blue Jackets.