Veteran forward Kevin Labanc had spent his first 8 seasons in the NHL with the San Jose Sharks. As a Shark, he provided some secondary scoring, where he routinely exceeded 30 points per season. In 2023-2024, he struggled in San Jose, only scoring a mere 9 points in 46 games.
No one signed him in the summer as a free agent. Instead, he was signed to a professional try-out agreement with the New Jersey Devils. He performed well in the preseason, but the Devils weren't quick enough to secure his services. Instead, the Blue Jackets swooped in and signed him to a 1-year contract. The primary purpose of his signing was to provide depth to the forward group and to contribute some offense.
Labanc started the season moving around the top 9 up front. He saw early power play time and was providing some offensive support. However, he had a short leash. His complete 200-ft game was lacking, and he turned the puck over far too many times. These are often common issues with skilled offensive players; especially ones you find in the bargain bin.
Head coach Dean Evason limited his ice time and, as the season progressed, made him a healthy scratch. Unfortunately for Labanc, he suffered a shoulder injury in February, which required surgery and resulted in him missing the remainder of the season. He only played in 34 games for the team and contributed 12 points.
He did provide depth at the forward position, which was mightily needed at the beginning of the season. However, as young players emerged and players returned from injury, his absence was never really felt by the club.
Labanc is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. His return to the Blue Jackets is highly unlikely. His play was inconsistent, and he is still recovering from a shoulder injury. That, coupled with the talented young players pushing for playing time, leaves little-to-no room for Labanc on the CBJ roster.
Final season stats: 34 games played, 2 goals, 10 assists, 12 points, 12 PIM, +1, 35 shots on goal, Overall grade: D
Kevin Labanc was relatively productive as a depth scoring option for the Blue Jackets. But, he wasn't able to find a role on the top two lines. And, his game isn't suited for minutes in Dean Evason's bottom six, where he prefers heavier role players. Unfortunately, the team and player just weren't a match this season.