Blue Jackets Sign 2010 First Round Pick Ryan Johansen

[Thrillhouse]

COLUMBUS, OHIO – The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed center Ryan Johansen to a standard three-year entry level contract, club General Manager Scott Howson announced today.

Johansen, 18, was the Blue Jackets’ first pick, fourth overall, in the 2010 Entry Draft held June 25-26 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. He scored 25 goals and 44 assists for 69 points, had 53 penalty minutes and was +17 in 71 games with Portland of the Western Hockey League during the 2009-10 season. He ranked second among WHL rookies in points. He added 6-12-18 and 18 penalty minutes in 13 playoff games to lead all WHL rookies in playoff scoring.

“We are pleased to have Ryan signed prior to the opening of training camp,” Howson said. “He is a big part of our future and we look forward to getting his Blue Jackets career started this weekend at the annual Prospects Tournament in Traverse City.”

The Port Moody, British Columbia native, Johansen recorded 5-12-17 and 21 penalty minutes in 47 games with Penticton of the British Columbia Hockey League in 2008-09. He added 4-3-7 and two penalty minutes in 10 playoff games to rank fourth on the club in playoff scoring.