Defenseman Damon Severson will continue his career with the Columbus Blue Jackets, who signed him from the New Jersey Devils on Friday after signing an eight-year deal averaging $6.25 million a year.
The Devils were compensated in the next draft with a third-round pick, 80th overall.
As such, Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen appears determined to refresh his defensive roster after taking over Ivan Provorov from the Philadelphia Flyers earlier this week. Severson could have tested the free-agent market on July 1 after inking a six-year, $25 million deal.
“Damon is an agile guard with excellent view of the game. He circulates the puck very well and relies on good physicality while also being able to play several crucial minutes on both sides of the ice,” the GM said in a press release. He will be an important part of our blue line for many years to come.”
The 28-year-old had 33 points in 81 games and maintained a +9 rating last season, adding three points in 12 playoff games. Last year he set a personal best with 46 points in 80 appearances.