Blue Jackets Sign James Wisniewski to Six-Year Contract

The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced that they have re-signed defenseman James Wisniewski to a six-year contract worth $33 million. The deal will average $5.5 million per season. His negotiating rights were acquired by the Blue Jackets on June 29 from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for a conditional seventh round pick in the 2012 Entry Draft. The pick became a fifth-rounder since Columbus signed him to a contract. The Canadiens acquired Wisniewski last December from the New York Islanders in exchange for a second round pick in 2011 and a conditional fifth round pick in 2012. In 75 games last season with the Islanders and Canadiens, he had 10 goals and 41 assists for 51 points. This is a good signing for the Blue Jackets, as they were in need of some offensive depth on defense. Wisniewski has lots of offensive skill, is an excellent power play quarterback, and plays with plenty of toughness. He should be a good fit for Columbus throughout the duration of the contract.