Blue Jackets Sign Ryan Russell to One-Year Extension

The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced that they have re-signed left wing Ryan Russell to a one-year, two-way contract.  The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.  He would have been a group six unrestricted free agent this summer.  In 41 games this past season with Columbus, he had two goals.  He also appeared in 31 games with Springfield of the AHL, scoring nine goals and six assists for 15 points.  This is really just a depth signing for the Blue Jackets, as Russell could likely split next season with Columbus and Springfield.  He does have some two-way ability, so he will likely see time on the checking lines while playing with the Blue Jackets.

Blue Jackets Sign Ryan Russell to One-Year Contract

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced today that they have signed left wing Ryan Russell to a one-year, two-way contract. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. He was acquired by the Blue Jackets from the Montreal Canadiens on July 7 in exchange for Michael Blunden. In 65 games last season with Hamilton of the AHL, Russell had 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points. This is really just a depth move for the Blue Jackets, as Russell will likely spend the majority of next season in the minors.

Canadiens Acquire Michael Blunden from Blue Jackets for Ryan Russell

The Montreal Canadiens have announced that they have acquired right wing Michael Blunden from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for left wing Ryan Russell. The Blue Jackets re-signed Blunden on June 29 to a one-year, two-way contract. Russell has yet to receive a new contract for the 2011-12 season and is still a restricted free agent. In one game last season with Columbus, Blunden had no points. He also appeared in 37 games with Springfield of the AHL, scoring 12 goals and nine assists for 21 points. Russell appeared in 65 games last season with Hamilton of the AHL, scoring 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points. He has yet to appear in an NHL game. This is really just a depth move for both teams, as Blunden and Russell will likely spend the majority of next season in the AHL.

Canadiens Re-Sign Desharnais, Russell, Desjardins

The Montreal Canadiens have announced that they have re-signed center David Desharnais to a one-year contract and left wing Ryan Russell and goaltender Cedrick Desjardins to one-year, two-way contracts. The financial terms of all three deals were not disclosed. These aren't bad depth signings for the Canadiens. Desharnais has lots of offensive skill and works very hard every shift on the ice, making him one of Montreal's top offensive prospects. Russell has some offensive upside, while Desjardins has some goaltending upside. All three players will likely spend most of next season in the minors, although if Desharnais impresses enough at training camp, he could earn a roster spot on the team.