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There's still plenty of time remaining in summer, but the most important thing on Jarmo Kekalainen's off-season to do list remains unchecked.

That, of course, is re-signing Ryan Johansen, who's coming off an excellent 13-14 campaign and looks to have the makeup of a franchise forward.

It's been well documented that talks are at a standstill, as Johansen's camp is looking to be compensated in the long run based off last year's breakout campaign, while Kekalainen wants a bridge deal. They're not even close to an agreement, and not much has changed the last few weeks.

Johansen has next to no leverage in this negotiation, as he's a restricted free agent who has just one good season under his belt.

Dishing out a long-term, big money deal and losing several high draft picks as compensation of an offer sheet for Johansen isn't too attractive for other general managers. The Blue Jackets have plenty of cap space to match, anyways, so it seems a waste of time more than anything else. An offer sheet is no real threat. An offer sheet is no real threat

Johansen's likely dragging this out in hopes of causing Kekalainen to panic a little and budge on a long-term deal, but I really don't see that happening. Kekalainen may cave on dollars a little bit, I think, but he's not giving Johansen a lucrative long-term contract.

I think ultimately we'll see something like two years and $7.5-8 million total for Johansen. If he proves his worth and shows he's not just a one-hit wonder, they'll pay up. Whether that's what happens or not remains to be seen, obviously.

Johansen will be a Blue Jacket this year and beyond. The question is what the terms of his next contract will be.

What do you think Johansen's worth, and if you were Kekalainen what would you be willing to offer him on an extension? I'm curious to hear all your thoughts, because I've seen quite a few varying opinions on this.

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Forwards for futures

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