The Columbus Blue Jackets made waves over the weekend as they announced the addition of Kevin Labanc, an experienced forward, to their roster prior to the start of the regular season. The team closed the deal on a one-year contract worth $775,000, according to the team.
Stellar Preseason Performance
Labanc’s signing comes on the heels of a successful pre-season. At the age of 28, Labanc, who was competing for a spot on the roster of the New Jersey Devils, showed his ability to score six goals, one of which was a hat trick against the Philadelphia Flyers earlier in the week.
A Look at Labanc’s NHL Career
Labanc’s career in the National Hockey League (NHL) includes multiple seasons with the San Jose Sharks, between 2016 and 2024. During 478 games, he accumulated 82 goals and 225 points, along with 217 penalty minutes and 885 shots. in the goal. His ice time stands at 14:24. His journey to the NHL began when the Sharks drafted him in the sixth round, 171st overall, back in 2014.
High Hopes for Labanc in Columbus
Columbus’ hockey president, Don Waddell, expressed high hopes for Labanc. “Kevin Labanc has been showing his offensive prowess in this league for several years,” Waddell said. “His amazing ability to shoot and play, combined with his character, makes us believe that he will work well with our team.”
Labanc’s Early Days in Hockey
Labanc, a native of Brooklyn, New York, has been involved in the sport since his youth. He played for the United States National Development Program in Michigan from 2011 to 2013.
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