Ivan Provorov has re-signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets, securing a seven-year, $59.5 million contract with an annual average value (AAV) of $8.5 million. The deal was reported on Monday by Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman and TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun.
Provorov, 28, was slated to become an unrestricted free agent. Over the past season with the Blue Jackets, he recorded seven goals and 26 assists, totaling 33 points, while playing in all 82 games. He also averaged 23:21 of ice time per game. Throughout his nine NHL seasons, Provorov has demonstrated remarkable durability, participating in all 82 regular-season games in six of those years.
Originally drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers as the seventh overall pick in the 2015 NHL Draft, the 6-foot-1, 213-pound defenseman spent his first seven seasons with the Flyers. The Blue Jackets acquired Provorov from the Flyers in a three-team trade.
In his two years with Columbus, Provorov has not missed a single game. His new contract places him as the second-highest-paid player on the team, only behind Zach Werenski. Last season, Provorov showcased his offensive capabilities, achieving his best offensive output since 2019 with 33 points, while also contributing on special teams.
"I'm still kind of shocked that the Blue Jackets haven't re-signed him yet, that he's potentially going to market," Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff said prior to the signing. "I would have thought for a guy that wanted to be there, that had played reasonably well, that they'd be ready and willing to commit to".
Provorov's consistent presence on the ice and his ability to contribute in all game situations have made him a valuable asset to the Blue Jackets. Despite some concerns about the team's overall defensive performance, Provorov's reliability and puck-moving skills are seen as positives.
The Blue Jackets are returning all seven of their regular defensemen, having also extended Dante Fabbro's contract. Additionally, they are retaining assistant coach Steve McCarthy to oversee the defense.
With Provorov's re-signing, the Blue Jackets have solidified their defensive lineup for the foreseeable future. His durability, consistent performance, and ability to contribute in various aspects of the game make him a key component of the team's blue line.
