Devils send Damon Severson to Blue Jackets in a rare sign-and-trade move

The Columbus Blue Jackets have acquired defenseman Damon Severson from the New Jersey Devils in an unusual sign-and-trade transaction, shaking up the NHL. Prior to the trade, the Devils signed Severson to a lucrative eight-year, $50 million contract extension. In exchange for his services, the Blue Jackets will send the Devils a 2023 third-round pick, specifically the 80th overall selection.

Severson was poised to become one of the most sought-after unrestricted free agents once the market opened on July 1. He is coming off a strong season with the Devils, where he recorded 33 points (seven goals, 26 assists) in 81 games. The previous season, Severson achieved a career-high 46 points (11 goals, 35 assists).

Selected by the Devils as the 60th overall pick in the 2012 NHL Draft, Severson has remained loyal to the organization throughout his nine-year career. During this time, he has accumulated impressive stats, including 58 goals and 205 assists. In September 2017, Severson signed a six-year, $25 million contract with the Devils, solidifying his commitment to the team.

Sign-and-trade deals are a rarity in the NHL, but this move marks the second consecutive offseason in which such a transaction has occurred. Last year, the Calgary Flames signed star forward Matthew Tkachuk to an eight-year, $76 million contract extension before trading him to the Florida Panthers.

One of the most notable sign-and-trade deals in NHL history involved Marian Hossa when he was part of the Ottawa Senators. In 2005, Hossa signed a three-year, $18 million contract with the Senators, only to be traded to the Atlanta Thrashers in exchange for All-Star forward Dany Heatley.

By making this unique move, the Devils and Blue Jackets have added intrigue to the NHL landscape, showing that creative transactions can occur in the world of professional hockey.