This former Boston Bruins forward has finally found his new home.
The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed former Boston Bruins forward James van Riemsdyk to a one-year, $900,000 contract.
van Riemsdyk, 35, was the top free-agent forward still without a contract at this juncture of the summer. It was recently reported that multiple teams were interested in signing him to a professional tryout (PTO), but he has now landed this guaranteed deal with the Blue Jackets.
Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell recently shared with reporters, including The Athletic's Aaron Portzline, that he was ready to add to their forward group. Now, he has done just that by bringing in van Riemsdyk, and it would not be surprising if he makes another addition shortly.
James van Riemsdyk
© John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
van Riemsdyk appeared in 71 games this past season with the Bruins, recording 11 goals, 38 points, and a plus-7 rating. In 11 playoff games, he had one goal and five points.
Overall, with this move, the Blue Jackets have brought in a solid top-nine forward in van Riemsdyk. He should be a key part of their power play and a good mentor for the club's younger players as they continue to move forward in their rebuild.
