Ryan Johansen budges on contract, lowers numbers
The battle might be coming to an end, as the previously unmovable force that was Ryan Johansen’s agent has lowered his asking price by $2.6 million. While yes, it’s still way out over what the Blue Jackets have and are likely willing to pay the center, it’s still a step toward middle ground for the two sides. Kurt Overhardt, Johansen’s agent offered a deal of 2 years for $9.4 million, or $4.7M per year. The Blue Jackets have so far remained firm at their $3 million per year, but Johansen seems to be closing the gap between the offers.
It’s looking like whoever’s will power lasts the longest will win, because Johansen needs a team (unless he hops on over to Russia) and the Blue Jackets can’t lose one of their key players after finally hitting a successful season and making it to the playoffs.
Previously September 22, 2014
Ryan Johansen going to Russia?
The feud between the Columbus Blue Jackets and Ryan Johansen might be over, and it might end with Johansen going to Russia. The Columbus team offered the center $6 million over two years, which Johansen’s agent has thus far refused and the team is now holding tryouts for his position. Reports are cropping up about Johansen getting offers from teams in Russia’s Continental Hockey League.
Previously September 18, 2014
CBJ: Johansen packed his bags for home
While most of the Columbus Blue Jackets players are gearing up for training camp that begins Thursday, Ryan Johansen has hit the road for home, and without contract in hand. Monday John Davidson, club president, detailed the continuing difficulties Johansen’s agent has created. “When you start talking about contracts that are … close to $50 million, I think our group has been very fair, in fact more than fair,” Davidson said. “But it’s nowhere near what they want. When it gets to that point, you start going, ‘Enough is enough here.’” The contract offers have ranged from two years for $6 million, six years for $32 million and eight years for $46 million.
Unless a contract is signed before camp, the Columbus Blue Jackets have said that Johansen cannot come into Nationwide Arena.
Previously September 17, 2014
CBJ training camp is looming, is Ryan Johansen out?
Contract negotiations have waged on for Columbus Blue Jackets center Ryan Johansen, and his agent still hasn’t accepted any of the team’s offers. GM Jarmo Kekalainen has cautioned the player on being late for training camp. “Our success is going to come from being a team, not a bunch of individuals or stars, or whatever. We’re not a star-studded team. To me it’s huge that you go through training camp together and get ready,” he said, according to the Dispatch. The camp starts Thursday and a contract has yet to be signed. Johansen’s agent is asking for about $6.5 million after he led the team to its my successful season. The team has offered about $3 million to $3.5 million.
Could he be off the roster if he doesn’t sign by training camp?
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