Johnny Gaudreau, Blue Jackets Reportedly Agree to 7-Year Contract with $9.8M AAV

The first day of NHL free agency saw the signing of left wing Johnny Gaudreau to a seven-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Jarmo Kekalainen made a major play for the veteran once free agency opened, according to The Athletic'sAaron Portzline.

TheFlyers were unable to clear enough cap space to offer a contract to Gaudreau, according to Emily Kaplan.

The New York Islanders and New JerseyDevils were interested in signing him.

He played for the Flames for eight years. He had 38 goals and 70 assists for108 points last year.

The Flames finished first in the Pacific Division and reached the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs thanks to his efforts.

The 28-year-old, who starred at Boston College before going to the NHL, has scored over 200 goals in his career.

A six-year, $40.5 million contract was signed by the player. It's safe to say that the deal worked out for the Flames, but it's still a blow to the organization, which was poised to contend well into the decade had he remained.

He gives Columbus a huge boost to their offense. The Blue Jackets missed the playoffs after finishing sixth in the Metropolitan Division with a 37-38-7 record. The team's top line is expected to be comprised of Gaudreau, Voracek, andRoslovic.

Columbus can now focus on re-signing the two restricted free agents.