© Samantha Madar/USA Today Network via Imagn Images [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/5f2e8b75-5ac7-4a87-8084-959f32934f92.jpeg] © Samantha Madar/USA Today Network via Imagn Images This summer, Jason Newland [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/columbus-blue-jackets/author/jason-newland]and I will continue our series looking at potential free agent targets who could be available on July 1. Today, we’re looking at Aaron Ekblad. Target: Aaron Ekblad – RD – 11 Years Experience At one point, Aaron Ekblad looked like the face of the Florida Panthers' blue line. But over the past few seasons, the Panthers have developed and brought in other defensemen who look ready to take over his role once he hits free agency this summer. If the Columbus Blue Jackets lose out on Ivan Provorov, could Ekblad be a natural fit next to Zach Werenski? Let’s take a closer look. Stats Over his 11-year NHL career, Ekblad has built a strong reputation as a steady two-way defender. In 56 games this season, he posted three goals and 30 assists for 33 points and a +11 rating. He did, however, miss 20 games after being suspended for violating the NHL and NHLPA's policy on performance-enhancing drugs. In total, he’s played 732 NHL games, with 118 goals, 262 assists for 380 points, and a career +96 rating. Previous Salary Ekblad is in the final year of the deal he signed back on July 1, 2016 — one that carried a $7.5 million AAV. Most contract projections have his next deal landing around $6.9 million annually, with a likely term of seven years. Realistic Chances of a Signing: Warm The Blue Jackets have a legit shot at Ekblad if he hits the open market. If they lose Provorov, replacing him with another veteran who can stabilize the right side and help the blue line grow makes a lot of sense. Now, it’s possible GM Don Waddell could explore other options. But bringing in an experienced, Stanley Cup–winning defenseman to help lead a young core would be a smart move. Let us know what you think below. Stay updated with the most interesting Blue Jackets stories, analysis, breaking news, and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News [https://news.google.com/publications/CAAqBwgKMK-q0gsw7sXpAw/sections/CAQqEAgAKgcICjCvqtILMO7F6QMwm-DfCA?hl=en-CA&gl=CA&ceid=CA%3Aen] and never miss a story. 2025 Columbus Blue Jackets Potential Free Agent Targets: Dante Fabbro [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/74c39ea3-6ce5-4cc6-9f22-21891d64c2cd.jpeg] 2025 Columbus Blue Jackets Potential Free Agent Targets: Dante Fabbro This summer, <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/columbus-blue-jackets/author/spencer-lazary">Spencer Lazary</a> and I will continue our series with more potential free agent targets that could be on the market on July 1st. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/columbus-blue-jackets/latest-news/2025-columbus-blue-jackets-potential-free-agent-targets-dante-fabbro] 2025 Columbus Blue Jackets Potential Free Agent Targets: Brad Marchand [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/eac96316-d860-425c-9aff-eb85688780b0.jpeg] 2025 Columbus Blue Jackets Potential Free Agent Targets: Brad Marchand This summer, <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/columbus-blue-jackets/author/jason-newland">Jason Newland </a>and I will continue our series looking at potential free agent targets who could be available on July 1. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/columbus-blue-jackets/latest-news/2025-columbus-blue-jackets-potential-free-agent-targets-brad-marchand] Johnny Gaudreau’s Mom & Dustin Wolf Share Special Moment On Social Media [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/5891c908-9679-4ba4-bd46-45a57c26dacd.jpeg] Johnny Gaudreau’s Mom & Dustin Wolf Share Special Moment On Social Media The Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau tragedy never fails to bring tears to people’s eyes. Yesterday on Twitter/X, there was another emotional moment—this time between Jane Gaudreau, the mother of Johnny and Matthew, and Calgary Flames goalie Dustin Wolf. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/columbus-blue-jackets/latest-news/johnny-gaudreaus-mom-dustin-wolf-share-special-moment-on-social-media]
