More deals, more cap room.
The Columbus Blue Jackets traded defenseman Ryan Murray to the New Jersey Devils on Thursday night. They received a fifth-round pick in 2021 in return.
GM Jarmo Kekalainen continues to clear cap room, presumably in attempt to land a big-time offensive player either through trade or free agency. On Thursday alone, the Blue Jackets cleared $11.8 million in salary cap room with the buyout of Alexander Wennberg, the trade of Markus Nutivaara, and finally the Murray deal.
Murray makes $4.6 million against the cap and will be an unrestricted free agent after next season.
From the Blue Jackets:
“Ryan is a very good player and quality person and we thank him for everything he has done as a member of our organization and wish him well in the future,” said Kekalainen.
Murray, 27, was selected by Columbus with the second overall pick at the 2012 NHL Draft. In 347 career games with the Blue Jackets, he registered 15 goals and 95 assists for 110 points with 104 penalty minutes and a cumulative plus/minus rating of +13 over seven seasons from 2013-20. He added 1-2-3 and four PIM in 20 career Stanley Cup Playoffs appearances.
