This former Philadelphia Flyers forward has officially been signed.
Former Philadelphia Flyers forward James van Riemsdyk was one of the best free agents left in September. Now, after over three months on the free-agent market, the veteran winger has finally found his new home.
On Sunday, the Columbus Blue Jackets signed van Riemsdyk to a one-year, $900,000 contract. With this, van Riemsdyk should be a strong part of their middle six and see reps on their power play.
Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell expressed excitement about the addition of van Riemsdyk in the team's official announcement:
"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."
It felt inevitable that van Riemsdyk would land a contract before the start of the season. He performed well for the Bruins last season, recording 11 goals, 38 points, and a plus-7 rating in 71 games. With offensive totals like these, van Riemsdyk has the potential to be a strong addition to a Columbus team that needs more offense.
The Flyers selected van Riemsdyk as the second-overall pick of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. In 527 games as a Flyer over two stints and two stints, he had 146 goals, 151 assists, and 297 points.
Philadelphia Flyers left wing James van Riemsdyk (25) controls the puck against the Minnesota Wild during a shootout at Wells Fargo Center.
Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports
It will now be interesting to see how JVR performs with the Blue Jackets from here. For the first time in his career, he will be playing for one of the Flyers' division rivals.
