Story Summary
The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed centre Adam Fantilli to a six-year contract worth $82.5 million, carrying a $13.75 million average annual value through the 2031-32 season. The 21-year-old had been a restricted free agent.
Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell called Fantilli an exciting young player and an important part of the club’s plans. Fantilli recorded 24 goals and 35 assists in 82 games last season, averaging 18:54 of ice time per game. He has 67 goals and 73 assists in 213 NHL regular-season games.
The contract includes a 15-team no-trade clause in its final two seasons. Its listed annual cash breakdown features substantial signing bonuses over the first four years.
Key Facts
- Adam Fantilli has signed a six-year, $82.5 million contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
- The deal has a $13.75 million average annual value and runs through the 2031-32 season.
- Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell said Fantilli has the speed, size, skill and competitive drive the club values, calling him a major part of what Columbus is building.
- Reportedly, Fantilli’s age is 21.
- Fantilli had 24 goals and 35 assists in 82 games last season, averaging 18:54 of ice time per game.
- In 213 NHL regular-season games, Fantilli has 67 goals and 73 assists.
- Listed contract breakdown: 2026-27 – $6 million salary and $10 million signing bonus; 2027-28 – $5 million salary and $10 million signing bonus; 2028-29 – $6.5 million salary and $7.5 million signing bonus; 2029-30 – $8 million salary and $5 million signing bonus; 2030-31 – $12.5 million salary; 2031-32 – $12 million salary.
- Fantilli has a 15-team no-trade clause in the final two years of the deal.
IHM Discussion
This is a major long-term commitment to a young centre who has already produced at NHL level. At six years and $13.75 million per season, Fantilli is now firmly established among the Blue Jackets’ core players.
The cash structure includes large signing bonuses in the first four seasons, while the final two years carry higher base salaries. The 15-team no-trade clause also gives Fantilli a measure of control late in the agreement.
For Columbus, the deal is a clear wager on Fantilli continuing to build on a 59-point season and developing into an even more complete centre.
Why It Matters
Fantilli’s combination of age, production and NHL experience makes this a consequential commitment for Columbus. His 24-goal, 59-point season showed he can contribute across a full schedule, and the new contract gives the Blue Jackets cost certainty around a central forward piece through 2031-32.
For Fantilli, the final two seasons’ limited no-trade protection adds longer-term security. The next question is how quickly he can turn strong offensive production into the consistent two-way influence expected of a leading NHL centre.
IHM Market Outlook
A $13.75 million average annual value represents a substantial investment in Fantilli’s ceiling as well as his current production. Columbus has committed to him through 2031-32, with a contract that combines sizeable early signing bonuses and a 15-team no-trade clause in its final two seasons.
The agreement puts the focus on Fantilli’s next stage of development: sustaining his scoring while taking on greater responsibility in all situations.
Mini Q&A
Has Adam Fantilli signed a contract with Columbus?
Yes. Adam Fantilli has signed a six-year, $82.5 million contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
How long is the deal and what is the reported AAV?
The deal runs for six years and has a $13.75 million average annual value.
Does the contract include a no-trade clause?
Yes. Fantilli has a 15-team no-trade clause in the final two years of the contract.
What were Fantilli’s most recent season and career numbers listed in the report?
Fantilli had 24 goals and 35 assists in 82 games last season, averaging 18:54 of ice time per game. In 213 NHL regular-season games, he has 67 goals and 73 assists.
Coach Mark Comment
From a coaching perspective, the two clear tasks are preserving Fantilli’s attacking instincts and sharpening his decision-making under pressure. Developing consistency in those areas is the typical pathway from high-upside young scorer to reliable, top-line centre.
What Comes Next
Fantilli can now join Columbus ahead of its season opener at home against the Buffalo Sabres on October 1. His immediate task will be getting up to speed after missing time in training camp while preparing for a larger role with the Blue Jackets.
IHM Final View
Columbus has made a decisive long-term investment in Adam Fantilli. The $82.5 million contract reflects both his 59-point season and the belief that he can grow into one of the Blue Jackets’ defining players. The deal is complete; attention now turns to how quickly Fantilli can translate that commitment into greater on-ice influence.