Long time New Jersey Devils defenseman Damon Severson received an eight-year contract extension today with the purpose of trading him to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Selected by the Devils in the second round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, Severson played 647 in red and white, scoring 263 points.
The new contract is for eight-years and $50 million, or $6.25 million AAV. The 28 year-old Severson is listed as 6’2″ and 205 lbs according to Elite Prospects. In return, the Devils received a 2023 third round pick.
“Damon is a versatile defenseman who has great vision, moves the puck extremely well, has good size and can play heavy minutes at both ends of the ice,” Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said. “We are excited to have him join the Blue Jackets as he will be a very important part of our blueline for many years to come.”
This is the first move in what will be a very busy offseason for the New Jersey Devils, now without their longest tenured skater, as they look to add talent for a Cup push next season.