The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed winger Kevin Labanc to a one-year contract worth $775,000, the club announced Saturday.
Labanc had joined the New Jersey Devils for training camp on a professional tryout, recording six goals and an assist in four pre-season games for the team. According to Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, the Devils had offered Labanc the same contract but would have needed to waive him and keep him in the AHL for a bit due to cap reasons.
The 28-year-old played 46 games for the San Jose Sharks last season, totalling nine points (two goals and seven assists). Across 478 career NHL games, all with the Sharks, he has 225 points (82 goals and 143 assists).
“Kevin Labanc has been a productive offensive player in this league for several years,” said Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell in a news release from the team. “He has an excellent shot and playmaking ability and given his character we believe he will fit in very well with our group.”