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NHL Rumors: Top analyst hints at what's next for free agents Cole Sillinger and Jack Johnson with the Columbus Blue Jackets
As we draw closer to the start of the new NHL season, question marks prevail on what's next for Cole Sillinger and Jack Johnson and their new path with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The Blue Jackets had a rather disappointing 2023-24 season. They finished bottom of the metropolitan division and fourth lowest in points tally across all four divisions.
It was certain that their roster needed a boost during this trade window. In came two top free agents, Cole Sillinger and Jack Johnson, who can prove pivotal in shaping the next year for the Blue Jackets.
NHL insider Aaron Portzline, on "Front and Nationwide" (A Columbus Blue Jackets podcast), expressed his thoughts on what's next for the pair of players. He said:
"I've been told to expect a one-year deal for Johnson and a multi-year deal for Sillinger."
He gave further details on the matter, saying:
"Johnson just wants to be back at the negotiating table under better circumstances."
Portzline indicates that Johnson has other priorities than negotiating a big contract at the moment and that once he is "back at the negotiating table" he could be in a stronger position to discuss his on-ice success for better off-the-field rewards.
What can Cole Sillinger and Jack Johnson add to the Columbus Blue Jackets?
Cole Sillinger, who signed a $2.78 million three-year entry-level contract with the Blue Jackets in 2021, has been a fairly decent signing for the side. Over the last three years, the youngster has played a sporadic role with the Blue Jackets with cameos here and there.
Sillinger has contributed to 32 goals and 42 assists over the past three years with his latest assist coming in the last regular season game on April 16 against the Carolina Hurricanes, which saw his side win the game 6-3.
Defenseman Jack Johnson has played his last two seasons with the Colorado Avalanche. He played a pivotal role in leading them through to the playoffs in both seasons, but they eventually fell short in round one and round two, respectively.
The addition of these two talented players will bring a mix of experience and youth to the roster, a mix of calm and composed decision-making and a burst of energy in the changing room. It remains to be seen if this change gets the Columbus Blue Jackets back into the playoffs in the coming years.
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