The Columbus Blue Jackets have extended right defender Andrew Peeke to a two year, $1.575M dollar contract extension. The contract will expire after the 2022-23 season. This was the only remaining pending contract on the books for the team.
Peeke, 23, was a second round draft selection by the Union Blue in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, 34th overall. He has collected one goal and five assists for 6 points in 33 games played. In 36 games with the Cleveland Monsters, the Florida native has earned 20 points in 36 games (5 goals, 15 assists).
He is figuring out his game at the professional game, as he has shown to be too talented to play in the farm, but the games help boost his confidence. At the same time, he was packed behind a logjam of veteran defenders for years in Columbus, and also spent time at the University of Norte Dame before making the jump to the National Hockey League.
In terms of the depth charts, he sits as the club’s second best right handed defenseman, only behind the recently acquired Adam Boqvist. Peeke’s extension is a prove it type of deal as he can put up the numbers, and command something before his restricted rights expire as he is peaking towards his prime years, and is still youthful.
Given the additions and subtractions to the franchise to the franchise so far this summer, he is projected to be a part of the starting lineup and put minutes on the board. Guessing from his ice time, expect partners to either be Vladislav Gavrikov, Gabriel Carlsson, or Jake Bean. If one goes down, the first could be Zach Werenski to change things around. The only other logical options left would be either Scott Harrington or Gavin Bayreuther, as these are the only guys with veteran experience and NHL games played.
It’s his time to shine, and if he doesn’t, he could be worth it to another team. Given he is from Florida, yet played college in Notre Dame, the Chicago Blackhawks, Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Florida Panthers could be options down the road given the playoff hopes for them, and their willingness to move future pieces for present opportunities.
What say you?
More to come...