After trading steady defenseman Marc Methot to Ottawa earlier in the day in order to bolster their offense, the Columbus Blue Jackets quickly solidified their defense later in the day by inking 17-year veteran Adrian Aucoin to a two-year contract. TSN's Aaron Ward confirmed on Twitter Sunday afternoon that Aucoin's deal will be worth at least $2 million depending on bonuses:
Further to Adrian Aucoin going to Columbus. It's 2 million over 1 year..plus bonuses #TSN
— Aaron Ward (@aaronward_nhl) July 1, 2012
The 38-year-old Aucoin will presumably take on a mentor-like role with some of the Blue Jackets' young defenders, including 2012 first round pick Ryan Murray, who was born literally 20 years later. Though Aucoin once tallied 23 goals in a season back with Vancouver in the late 90's, he has deteriorated as of late and clearly drew minimal interest on the free agent market. But being in desperate need of a proven veteran to step up and take on Methot's minutes (or more), Aucoin's signing is a solid value for Columbus at this point.
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