Kent Johnson's new contract is already a massive steal for the Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets were able to extend Kent Johnson for three more seasons on Saturday, at a rate that is already very team friendly.
We weren't expecting any big news to drop from the Blue Jackets this weekend, but that's exactly what happened. The team signed Kent Johnson to a three-year contract extension on Saturday, which is already a massive steal for the team.
Just yesterday, I predicted that Johnson would probably only be looking to sign a one year deal (though I wasn't far off on the AAV!). After what can only be described as a dismal sophomore season, his value was likely to be perceived well below its actual level.
Instead of signing for one year and trying to push for more money and term next summer, Johnson opted to sign a team-friendly three year contract with the Blue Jackets. It's baffling to me, because I think he should be worth so much more - but at this point, we'll take it and run.
Johnson's new AAV has him paid similarly to players like Teddy Blueger and Carl Grundstrom. Essentially, he just extended for three years at the salary of a replacement level player.
Even better: the Blue Jackets will still have one more RFA contract with Johnson after this deal is up. This is huge, because if he becomes the player we all believe he's capable of turning into, the Jackets can lock him up long-term at that point.
This really feels like a win for the team. Kent will probably play on the second or third line, and even if he can progress back to the level he was at during his rookie season; he'll be well worth this money.
If he keeps going on an upward trajectory from there, this could quickly turn into one of the best contracts in the entire NHL. This is a recent 5th overall pick, who already has a 40-point season under his belt in this league.
He'll need to add some strength, but he did improve in his two-way game this season. And, I do expect him to get used in different situations under new head coach Dean Evason.
Any kind of power-play time or added chemistry with his linemates, will make Kent Johnson a productive offensive player for this team. He certainly has the skill to play in those minutes - and now we can put to rest any inklings of seeing him traded away.
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