Carson Soucy signs one-year, $1.15M contract with Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed defenceman Carson Soucy to a one-year contract worth $1.15 million US, according to Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman. The deal comes after Soucy joined the team on a professional tryout for training camp.

From PTO to a guaranteed contract

Soucy arrived at Blue Jackets camp without a guaranteed spot, skating under a PTO while trying to extend his NHL career. He dressed for two pre-season games, facing the Detroit Red Wings and Buffalo Sabres. In those outings, he did not record a point but picked up 11 penalty minutes, registered two shots on goal and averaged 16:25 of ice time.

Columbus has now converted that audition into a standard one-year deal, adding an experienced option on the back end. The short term gives the club flexibility while providing Soucy with another opportunity to secure his place in the league after several moves in recent seasons.

Well-travelled blue-liner adds experience

Soucy, 32, began last season with the New York Rangers before being traded to the New York Islanders ahead of the trade deadline in exchange for a third-round pick. Across 76 games between the two clubs, the Viking, Alta., product recorded five goals and seven assists and finished with a minus-six rating.

He contributed physically as well, credited with 91 blocked shots and 105 hits over the campaign. Since being selected in the fifth round, 137th overall, in the 2013 NHL Draft, Soucy has suited up for the Minnesota Wild, Seattle Kraken, Vancouver Canucks, Rangers and Islanders.

Over eight NHL seasons, Soucy has appeared in 441 games, posting 32 goals and 67 assists for 99 points. By bringing him in on a one-year deal, the Blue Jackets bolster their blue-line depth as they finalize preparations for the upcoming regular season.