The Blue Jackets have brought in another forward who will compete for a roster spot next season.
Today, they announced the signing of forward Justin Danforth to a one-year contract for the 2021-22 NHL season. This year, Danforth notched 23-32-55 in 58 regular season games for Vityaz Podolsk in the KHL, including 12 power-play goals.
"Justin is a talented, offensive player coming off three outstanding seasons in the KHL and Liiga and we believe he is ready to prove himself in the National Hockey League," said Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen. "He has worked extremely hard to develop his game over the past five seasons and we are excited to welcome him to the Blue Jackets."
The 28-year-old winger played four seasons at Sacred Heart University, then turned pro. He played two seasons in North America, splitting time between the AHL and ECHL. Then, he headed overseas to Finland. In his two seasons in Liiga, he tallied 45-67-112. For the 2019-20 campaign, Danforth won the Lasse Oksanen Award as the League's Best Player, the Golden Helmet (top scorer) and was named to the All-Star Team after leading the league in points. After tearing it up in Finland, he moved to Russia for the 2020-21 campaign and dominated.
At 5'9", Danforth won't overpower anyone with his size. However, he brings speed and some slick hands to the ice. He's crafty and has a quick release on his shot. You can check out some highlights from his time in the KHL below.
