Veteran centre Sean Monahan has a new contract. After spending time with the Montreal Canadiens and Winnipeg Jets, he is now signing with the Blue Jackets. He is locked in for the next five years and will have an AAV of $5.5 million per season. For a guy who has been battling injuries for the last few years, this is a great reward.
Monahan Lands Contract With Blue Jackets
It is a masterclass by general manager Kent Hughes and how he managed the asset that is Monahan. You saw the promise he showed during the 2022-23 season, but an injury kept him out of the lineup for the season. Fast forward to the 2023-24 season, and he showed what he is capable of doing when fully healthy.
Between both teams, Monahan finished the year with 26 goals and 59 points in 83 games. He went on to score above his expected rate and did not skip a beat when he was on the move. Monahan was good defensively as well, finishing with 43 takeaways and his success in the faceoff circle is worthy of praise. This is a great deal for both sides and a great reward for a player that’s battled through injuries.
What this Means for Both Parties
When Monahan left the Calgary Flames, it signaled the end of an era there for him. It was painful to see given how well he played there. But after getting healthy, this contract for Monahan makes sense.
He gets his pay after producing and being an effective player when healthy. Monahan has shown what he can do and contribute on a contending team. As for the team, they are adding a player that can produce, be deployed in key situations, and add an extra layer of production. This is great for both sides and what should be a great 2024-25 season.
Main Photo: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports
