Blue Jackets sign center Sean Monahan in free agency

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — On the first day of NHL free agency, the Blue Jackets finalized a deal by signing center Sean Monahan to a five-year contract worth $27.5 million on Monday.

Monahan, who played for Montreal and Winnipeg last season, accumulated 59 points in 83 games and has scored 244 goals over his career. Team president Don Waddell emphasized Monahan’s talent, stating that his arrival boosts the team’s center position with added experience, leadership, and flexibility. Waddell highlighted Monahan’s scoring ability, playmaking skills, proficiency in faceoffs, and his effectiveness on special teams.

Monahan had a successful nine-year tenure with Calgary, where he developed a strong on-ice connection with current Blue Jackets winger Johnny Gaudreau.

The Blue Jackets are coming off a challenging season that saw them finish last in the Metro Division. The team made significant changes by parting ways with coach Pascal Vincent, general manager Jarmo Kekalainen, and reallocating former team president John Davidson. The signing of Monahan marks Waddell’s inaugural move in free agency.

During last week’s NHL draft, the Blue Jackets selected center Cayden Lindstrom from the Medicine Hat of the Western Hockey League as the fourth overall pick.

Additionally, on Monday, the NHL revealed that the Blue Jackets’ home opener is scheduled for October 15 against the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers. The team’s first exhibition game will take place on September 23.