The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed defenseman Mikko Lethonen to a one year contract extension for a cap hit of $900K.

Lethonen, 27, was an undrafted Finnish defenseman that was acquired by Columbus from the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for goaltender Veni Vehalainen. The netminder had decided to go back to Finland, and Lethonen staying with Columbus furthers his NHL career and how Columbus won this trade between Kekalainen and Dubas. In 26 games with Columbus and Toronto, he had no goals and 6 assists. Previous comparisons and scouting reports had the allure to compare him to a Finnish Bobby Orr, but the hype has not come as of yet. Expect Lethonen to compete in either the top 4 or 6, depending on the kids’ performances during training camp; else he may be a spare or a Cleveland Monster.

The only unsigned player on the Columbus roster is defenseman Andrew Peeke, and he has no arbitration rights. This will prove to be a battle for money and ice time between Kekalainen and Peeke’s agency.

In other news, Sean Kuraly will be wearing number #7 with Columbus; Voracek will have 93 on his back; Bean will wear 24; Boqvist will wear #27; Hoffman will wear #39; and Tasarov will wear #30.

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