'Experienced Forward James van Riemsdyk Joins Blue Jackets'
The Columbus Blue Jackets inked a one-year, $900,000 contract with forward James van Riemsdyk this past weekend.
The 35-year-old veteran notched 38 points (11 goals, 27 assists) in 71 games with the Boston Bruins during the 2023-24 season.
According to a news release on Sunday, Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell stated, \"James van Riemsdyk has consistently been a productive player throughout his career and bringing him to Columbus will not only add depth to our forward group, but also provide valuable leadership and another veteran presence in our locker room.\"
Van Riemsdyk has accumulated 629 points (311 goals, 318 assists) in 1,011 career games with the Philadelphia Flyers (2009-12, 2018-23), Toronto Maple Leafs (2012-18), and Bruins.
The New Jersey native was selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2007 draft by the Flyers. He has tallied 21 goals and 15 assists in 82 games in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Van Riemsdyk's experience and leadership could prove beneficial for the Blue Jackets as they move forward without Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically passed away in an accident on August 29 at the age of 31.
