Columbus Blue Jackets sign Erik Gudbranson to four year deal with $4 million cap hit

The Columbus Blue Jackets have added a veteran defenseman to their blueline, as they’ve reportedly signed Erik Gudbranson to a four year contract with a $4 million cap hit.

Gudbranson joins what shapes out to be a young blueline in Columbus, with only 26-year-old Vladislav Gavrikov and 28-year-old Gavin Bayreuther on their defense above the age of 25 with any NHL experience.

The 30-year-old defenseman had a solid season with the Calgary Flames, with career highs in goals with six, assists with 11, and points with 17. He also had a strong year defensively, with a 59.25% shot attempt share and a 52.95% expected goal share at even strength this season.

This is the second time Gudbranson has had a $4 million cap hit, as he had a three year deal for that price that he signed with the Vancouver Canucks in 2018.

This deal leaves the Bluejackets with just under $13 million in cap space, with only restricted free agent Patrik Laine as a big name to deal with internally.