Don Waddell said he was looking hard at the market to add a forward.
The President of Hockey Operations and General Manager does not lie.
The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed forward Kevin Labanc to a one-year contract worth $775,000, adding depth to the forward position just days before the season starts.
Welcome to Columbus!
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) October 5, 2024
Weve signed RW Kevin Labanc to a 1-year @NHL contract.
https://t.co/qYIxlPgySL@RuoffMortgage | #CBJ pic.twitter.com/bKUtQsxdRp
Labanc, 28, spent the first eight years of his NHL career with the San Jose Sharks. He was playing with the New Jersey Devils on a professional tryout contract (PTO) and scored six goals (adding an assist) in four preseason games. Labanc did receive an offer from the Devils, but opted for the Blue Jackets.
THIS IS AN NHL SHOT! Kevin Labanc still has something to give to an NHL team and I think he's showing the Devils last night at the Rock and tonight at MSG that he deserves a contract. #NJDevils pic.twitter.com/drTqtYE4ey
— Daniel Rebain (@pvtmcbain) October 2, 2024
In 478 games with the Sharks, Labanc scored 82 goals and added 143 assists. He can slot in at any wing spot, but primarily was on the right side while with the Sharks and that continued this preseason under the PTO with the Devils.
Labanc is 5'11", 185lbs and a native of Staten Island, New York.
This story will be updated.
