Blue Jackets sign-and-trade D Severson from Devils

The Columbus Blue Jackets have engaged in a sign-and-trade transaction with the New Jersey Devils, involving defenceman Damon Severson. Damon, an impending unrestricted free agent, is on the verge of finalizing an eight-year contract. The contract is reportedly set to carry an annual cap hit of $6.25 million as part of this exchange.

Aged 28, Damon showcased his skills during the previous season with the New Jersey Devils. He amassed seven goals and 33 points across 81 games. Additionally, he contributed one goal and three points in the 12 playoff games. Unfortunately, the Devils were eliminate by the Carolina Hurricanes in a five-game series during the second round.

Damon, standing tall at 6 feet 2 inches, enjoyed a remarkable campaign in 2021-22. He notched 11 goals and 46 points throughout 80 games. He was originally selected 60th overall by the Devils in the 2012 draft. Since then, Severson has remained a fixture in New Jersey for the entirety of his nine-year career. He has accumulated 58 goals and 263 points in 647 games.

This move comes on the heels of Severson’s previous six-year, $25 million deal. He signed the deal with the Devils in September 2017. Moreover, Severson proudly represented Canada in the 2019 and 2022 IIHF World Championships. He aided his country in securing two silver medals while contributing three goals and 14 points in 20 games.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have bolstered their defensive ranks with another acquisition. This comes following their recent three-way trade for Ivan Provorov earlier this week. As part of the exchange for Provorov, the Blue Jackets bid farewell to a 2023 first-round pick. The pick previously belonged to the Los Angeles Kings. They also included a second-round pick.

“Our paramount objective has been to fortify our blue line,” remarked Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen. He further added, “The addition of Ivan presents us with an established defenseman who possesses a strong left-shot, youthfulness, and the potential for his best seasons ahead.” Kekalainen emphasized that Ivan immediately enhances their defensive unit due to his durability, exceptional skills, adept skating, precise passing, accurate shooting, and his ability to perform effectively at both ends of the rink.

Looking ahead, the Columbus organization anticipates hiring Mike Babcock as their new head coach. This will happen following the expiration of his contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs on June 30.