I thought weekends weren’t for working? According to Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch, the Blue Jackets are getting ready to sign former Philadelphia Flyer, Sam Gagner to a one-year deal. Gagner played in 53 games with the Flyers and registered 16 points. He also added two assists this past postseason as well, playing in six games.
Told #CBJ are closing in a one-year, one-way deal with free agent center Sam Gagner. Filing blog shortly to Puck-rakers.
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) July 30, 2016
Depending on the money given to him (and it can’t be a whole lot considering where their cap stands) this is a good deal for the Jackets. If this moves the centers around and limits certain player’s ice time, it could be a positive for the Jackets. Additionally, only giving Gagner a one-year deal gives them flexibility during the season as well, if they need to trade him in a moments notice, they can.
When you sign Sam Gagner, you know what you're going to get. #CBJ pic.twitter.com/wGxiHCM6nH
— Buckeye State Hockey (@BuckeyeStHockey) July 30, 2016
The consistency that Gagner has shown in recent years is also commendable. He is a very good possession player and is a decent play-maker given his reputation. He may be a few years removed from his 8 point night but as friend of the blog Carolyn Wilke points out, he was the leading scorer for the Coyotes only two years ago. He will have every chance to make an impact on this club and as a low risk signing, it doesn’t get much better. He is a player who has average above a half a point per game his entire career, save for last season. Has he really lost that touch?
Now we will wait and see as the Gagner signing should be confirmed in the days ahead by the Blue Jackets. What will the cap hit be? Is this going to be a show me contract or will he be playing on a bonus laden deal?
Who says the summer has to be boring?
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
