Blue Jackets react to Aaron Ekblad’s reported extension in Florida with crucial move before free agency

The Florida Panthers, the reigning NHL champions after defeating the Oilers in the most recent Stanley Cup Finals, have secured Aaron Ekblad’s presence for the seasons ahead. Not to be outdone, the Columbus Blue Jackets—who have serious intentions of contending next season—made an intriguing move of their own.

According to the latest reports, Ivan Provorov—a key piece in Dean Evason’s team structure—is set to extend his stay with the Columbus franchise for several more years.

The news was reported by Pierre LeBrun, who shared the details of this notable move by the Blue Jackets through his official X account (formerly Twitter), as the team looks to secure a key figure for the future.

“CBJ and pending UFA Ivan Provorov are finalizing a 7-year contract at $8.5M AAV per season,” the insider reported via @PierreVLeBrun.

Ivan Provorov #9 of the Columbus Blue Jackets skates against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on March 11, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey.

The importance of Provorov to the Blue Jackets

Retaining Ivan Provorov is a massive win for the Columbus Blue Jackets as they build for the future. He brings a rare combination of consistent availability, logging all 82 games in the 2024-25 season, and versatile defensive play. His ability to play big minutes in all situations, including penalty killing and secondary power play units, makes him an indispensable part of their blue line for years to come.

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Provorov’s impact extends beyond just defensive responsibility. In the last season, he contributed offensively with 7 goals and 26 assists for 33 points, along with a strong +11 plus/minus rating. This two-way capability, combined with his reliable presence, positions him as a crucial veteran leader for a relatively young Blue Jackets squad looking to transition into a NHL playoff contender.

His recent seven-year, $59.5 million contract extension (an $8.5M AAV) underscores Columbus’s commitment to him as a cornerstone. With Provorov locked in, the Blue Jackets solidify a top-four defenseman who provides stability, production, and a strong example for their emerging prospects.