Blue Jackets Lock Up Derick Brassard for Four

These are exciting times to be a Columbus Blue Jackets fan and the news got even better on Friday when then this vastly improving franchise locked up their 2006 first round pick in forward Derick Brassard to a four year contract extension. Columbus who last season qualified for the first time ever for a playoff spot with 92 points have now locked up two of their premier young players in not only Brassard but captain Rick Nash as well. In early July management went out and signed their captain and leading scorer in Nash to an eight- year extension. In terms of Brassard the great news is that this 21 year-old is finally healthy after having his season come to an abrupt end last December due to needing shoulder surgery. In only 31 games last season this 21 year-old showed lots of promise and gave reason for management to be excited about the future as he netted 10 goals and 15 assists over that time. “We are pleased to have Derick under contract for the next five years,” Blue Jackets GM Scott Hawson said. “Derick’s determination, passion and talent makes us believe he will be an important part of our team in the coming years.” This extension will kick in next season when the forward will earn 13 million over the four years.