The Columbus Blue Jackets signed winger Markus Hannikainen before the end of last season to a two-year, one-way deal.
This deal is important because Markus Hannikainen now requires waivers if the Columbus Blue Jackets decide to send him to Cleveland. This did not seem to be quite the game changer when the deal was signed, but the one-way provision makes Hannikainen a lock to make the Blue Jackets roster and adds pressure to Columbus to keep him on the roster long term.
Expectations For Hannikainen
While there is a positive for Hannikainen that the Blue Jackets would have to put him on waivers, this adds to the pressure that Hannikainen has to play well and earn ice time. If Hannikainen struggles, he will have to play well, or he could be watching the game from up top.
John Tortorella has proven that players of any skill level will have to prove their worth, or he will have them watching the game and learn from it. Hannikainen being signed for two years is telling, but not a complete surprise. Columbus would not sign him longer than a year if they did not believe in him.
More from Editorials
- The Mike Babcock Experiment in Columbus Has Failed
- Mike Babcock Resigns as CBJ Head Coach: Reaction
- “Spittin Chiclets” Podcast Spits on Blue Jackets, Babcock
- Statistical Predictions for the 2023-24 Columbus Blue Jackets
- The Five Greatest Single Seasons by a Columbus Blue Jacket Skater
Hannikainen is given the shot to stick with the Blue Jackets. This shot was earned by his play in Columbus, so Hannikainen will have every opportunity to succeed, so the finishing product is up to him.
The Columbus Blue Jackets have a real tough customer in Hannikainen , and he has earned his shot at competing for a roster spot with a slight advantage over unproven prospects. He also better not get too comfortable.
Blue Jackets General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen has proven that he is willing to send players that do not deserve to be on the roster packing. Markus Hannikainen has proven doubters wrong before, and Columbus has awarded him as such.