Gaudreau's arrival energizes Blue Jackets

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The Columbus Blue Jackets pulled off the improbable, landing the hottest free agent on the market in winger Johnny Gaudreau.

The 29-year old Gaudreau had a career-high 115 points last season in his ninth year with Calgary. He was lured to Columbus with a seven-year deal worth $9.75 million a season and the prospect of playing closer to his New Jersey home.

“Johnny Hockey” might be the most exciting forward to play for the Blue Jackets since Artemi Panarin in 2017-19. He's a difference-maker, and the buzz is palpable.

“A lot of questions from people,” said Blue Jackets forward and Columbus native Jack Roslovic. "Everyone seems to know of this Johnny Gaudreau guy who’s coming in. Is he the real deal? People seem to be excited and, I’d say, intrigued as well.”

But how much of a difference will he be able to make?

Columbus finished last season 37-38-7 with 81 points, sixth place in the Metropolitan Division and 19 points out of the final postseason spot. The Blue Jackets missed the playoffs for the second season after four straight appearances.

The team's top goal-scorer and fan favorite, Oliver Bjorkstrand, was dealt to Seattle for draft picks to free up room under the salary cap. And Gaudreau quickly settled in — he bought Bjorkstrand’s house in Columbus.

THE FIRST LINE

Whether Columbus can produce more offense may depend on how Gaudreau meshes with right winger Patrik Laine, who signed to a four-year deal worth $8.7 million per season to stay in town. Gaudreau's puck-handling and playmaking ability should give the 24-year-old Laine an opportunity to improve on his 26 goals last season. The Jackets hope he can get closer to the 44 goals and 26 assists he recorded in 2017-18 with Winnipeg.

“It takes