Columbus Blue Jackets sign Adam Fantilli to three-year, entry-level contract

Columbus Blue Jackets general manager and alternate governor Jarmo Kekalainen announced Saturday that the franchise has signed 2023 No. 3 overall pick Adam Fantilli to a three-year, entry-level contract worth. The contract will run through the 2025-2026 season.

Fantilli dominated the University of Michigan this past season, notching an NCAA-leading 30 goals and 65 points in 36 games, earning him the Hobey Baker Award and the Tim Taylor Trophy as the NCAA’s Top Collegiate Player and Top Collegiate Rookie. Fantilli was also named to the NCAA First All-American Team as he and the Wolverines captured the B1G Championship. He became the third freshman in NCAA history to win the Hobey Baker Award, joining Paul Kariya and Eichel.

After Fantilli’s miraculous season, he now holds the NCAA record for points per game. 1.80 points-per-game (PPG), former No. 2 overall pick Jack Eichel held the previous record and ended his draft year with a 1.78 PPG.

The Toronto, Ontario product starred for Team Canada at the IIHF World Junior Championships, registering five points in seven games and winning a gold medal. He also represented Canada at the IIHF World Championships, picking up three points in 10 games and adding another gold medal to his collection. Fantilli was nominated for the IIHF Male Player of the Year.

Even Chicago Blackhawks No. 1 overall pick Connor Bedard boasted about his World Juniors teammate “[Fantilli’s] so fast, so dynamic…Obviously, he’s someone who kind of pops out just with his speed, his size. He’s so powerful, and what he’s doing in college is kind of unheard of.” Bedard said.

It’s unclear where Fantilli fits into the Blue Jackets lineup yet, but with the likes of Johnny Gaudreau, Patrik Laine, and Kent Johnson part of the mix as well, Fantilli is in good company.