Blue Jackets Extend Provorov, Reshape Roster

The Columbus Blue Jackets re-signed defenseman Ivan Provorov to a seven-year, $59.5 million contract extension with an $8.5 million annual value, keeping him off the NHL free-agent market. Provorov, 28, played all 82 games last season, tallying seven goals and 33 points while averaging over 23 minutes per game. The team also extended Dante Fabbro with a four-year, $16.5 million deal, joining Provorov, Damon Severson, and Norris Trophy finalist Zach Werenski as the core defensemen under contract for at least three more seasons. Despite these moves, Columbus' defense ranked 25th in goals against per game last season, raising questions about improvement. The team further strengthened its roster by acquiring forwards Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood, but has not changed its goaltending. With about $21 million in cap space, the Blue Jackets retain flexibility as free agency opens.