James Van Riemsdyk reveals how he will help Blue Jackets through Johnny Gaudreau tragedy

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Axel Williams
September 16, 2024 (10:01)

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Over the weekend, the Columbus Blue Jackets signed James Van Riemsdyk to a one-year deal worth $900K.

This was a good move for the Blue Jackets who are currently dealing with the Johnny Gaudreau tragedy. Overall, the team lost a leader and an amazing player. By bringing in JVR, they are bringing forward a star who knows how to deal with adversity and a young locker room. While Van Riemsdyk is entering a sensitive situation, it is clear that he is ready for the task.

While speaking to Aaron Portzline of The Athletic, JVR noted just how much he is looking forward to playing in Columbus. Furthermore, he spoke on Gaudreau's passing and how the team will just have to take the grieving process day by day. He has a level head about all of it, which will certainly go a long way.

"The outpouring of support and love - just so many people wanting to rally behind the Gaudreau family - has been really moving," van Riemsdyk said. "The hockey world, we're a brotherhood. We look after each other and try to be there for each other, and that's going to be an element of this. There are going to be some things here outside of the game of hockey. It's not a linear thing, right? There will be good days, but some days are going to be tough. We're going to support each other as much as we possibly can."

JVR has over 1000 games of NHL experience and he even has 311 goals to show for it. That is an impressive number that no one should stick their nose at. With that said, it will be interesting to see if he is able to keep his production up next season. He had 38 points in 71 games last season, which for his age, is pretty good.

Do you believe JVR to Columbus was the right move? Let us know in the poll down below and stay tuned to Hockey Unplugged for the latest news and updates from around the hockey world.

Source: Aaron Portzline
James van Riemsdyk on his willingness to step into a Blue Jackets dressing room that could endure difficult days: