Blue Jackets sign veteran F James van Riemsdyk

Field Level Media|published: Mon 16th September, 12:17 2024

Feb 24, 2024; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Boston Bruins forward James van Riemsdyk (21) awaits the start of play against the Vancouver Canucks during the second period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-Imagn Images

The Columbus Blue Jackets signed forward James van Riemsdyk to a one-year, $900,000 deal over the weekend.

The 35-year-old veteran tallied 38 points (11 goals, 27 assists) in 71 games with the Boston Bruins in 2023-24.

"James van Riemsdyk has been a very consistent, productive player throughout his career and bringing him to Columbus will not only provide depth to our group up front, but also valuable leadership and another veteran presence in our dressing room," Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell said in a news release Sunday.

Van Riemsdyk has 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 the No. 2 overall pick in the 2007 draft by the Flyers. He has recorded 21 goals and 15 assists in 82 games in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Van Riemsdyk's experience and leadership could help to steady the Blue Jackets as they move on without Johnny Gaudreau, who was killed in an accident on Aug. 29 at age 31.

--Field Level Media