The excitement around the Blue Jackets' young core keeps growing.
One of those reasons for excitement is defenseman Andrew Peeke, who has signed a two-year, one-way contract with the Blue Jackets worth $1.575 million ($787,500 AAV). He'll be in Columbus through the 2022-23 NHL season.
"Andrew is a smart, mobile defenseman, who has the ability to join the rush and make plays in all three zones," said GM Jarmo Kekalainen. "He is still a young player, but we are excited to see his continued growth within our organization as he continues to work and earn more playing time."
Peeke has offensive upside. He'll almost certainly be a lineup regular this upcoming season, as he is one of only two right-handed defensemen (Adam Boqvist) currently on the Blue Jackets roster. After averaging 13:51 of ice time in his first NHL season, Peeke averaged 17:09 this past campaign. That number may continue to increase this season.
In 33 career NHL games, Peeke has tallied 1-5-6. The 23-year-old was drafted by the Blue Jackets in the second round of the 2016 NHL Draft, at 34th overall.
