The Columbus Blue Jackets and winger Oliver Bjorkstrand agreed to a five-year extension that will keep the 25-year-old player with the franchise through the 2025-26 NHL season. The team confirmed the news on Wednesday, revealing that Bjorkstrand will earn $27 million throughout the deal.
“Just very happy that I had the opportunity to sign that kind of contract and set up my future,” said Bjorkstrand after inking the contract. “Very, very pumped about it.”
Bjorkstrand had an impressive season in 2019-20, leading the team with 21 goals while also adding 15 assists and 162 shots. And he did it despite just playing 49 games.
This prompted the Blue Jackets’ front office to act fast and lock Bjorkstrand to a long-term deal without letting him hit free agency next offseason.
“He is a dangerous offensive player, and we believe he will be an even more impactful player for us as he continues to develop and mature in this league,” said general manager Jarmo Kekalainen.
The Blue Jackets drafted Bjorkstrand in the third round of the 2013 NHL Draft. He made his NHL debut during the 2015-16 season and currently has 246 games under his belt in the league. He scored 65 goals while adding 68 assists.
