### Blue Jackets Secure Dante Fabbro with Four-Year Contract Extension The Columbus Blue Jackets have made a significant move by signing defenseman Dante Fabbro to a four-year contract extension worth $16.5 million. This decision comes after Fabbro's impressive performance during the 2024-25 season, where he achieved career highs with nine goals and 26 points. The 27-year-old defenseman was previously claimed off waivers from the Nashville Predators and has quickly become a vital part of the Blue Jackets' defensive lineup. The contract extension not only secures Fabbro's future with the team but also reflects the Blue Jackets' commitment to strengthening their roster as they aim for a more competitive season ahead [https://www.nhl.com/bluejackets/news/blue-jackets-sign-defenseman-dante-fabbro-to-four-year-extension][https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/45609590/blue-jackets-sign-dante-fabbro-four-year-165m-deal]. ### Breakdown of the Contract and Its Implications 1. **Contract Details**: - Fabbro's new deal is valued at **$16.5 million** over four years, averaging **$4.125 million** per season. - The first year includes a **no-trade clause**, which will transition to a modified no-trade clause in subsequent years [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_sign_top_four_piece_to_four_year_extension/s1_14825_42391646]. 2. **Player Performance**: - In the 2024-25 season, Fabbro recorded **nine goals** and **26 points** in **68 games**, showcasing his offensive capabilities alongside his defensive skills [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_d_dante_fabbro_inks_4_year_extension/s1_17050_42391783]. - His performance significantly improved after joining the Blue Jackets, contributing to the team's overall stability on defense [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_sign_dante_fabbro_to_four_year_165_million_extension/s1_16448_42391975]. 3. **Team Strategy**: - The Blue Jackets prioritized retaining Fabbro to enhance their defensive lineup, especially after missing out on other key players during the NHL Draft [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_sign_dante_fabbro_to_four_year_165_million_extension/s1_16448_42391975]. - Fabbro's presence is expected to bolster the performance of other defensemen, particularly Zach Werenski, who had a standout season with Fabbro's support [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_sign_dante_fabbro_to_four_year_165_million_extension/s1_16448_42391975]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Career Statistics**: - Fabbro has accumulated **98 points** (25 goals, 73 assists) in **377 career games** across his tenure with the Nashville Predators and Columbus Blue Jackets [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_d_dante_fabbro_inks_4_year_extension/s1_17050_42391783]. - His **plus-20 rating** last season indicates a strong two-way game, contributing positively to the team's overall performance [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_sign_dante_fabbro_to_four_year_165_million_extension/s1_16448_42391975]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move for the Blue Jackets In summary, the Columbus Blue Jackets' decision to extend Dante Fabbro's contract for four years at $16.5 million is a strategic move aimed at solidifying their defense and enhancing team performance. 1. **Contract Security**: Fabbro's extension ensures that a key player remains with the team, providing stability and experience. 2. **Performance Impact**: His recent career highs indicate that he is in prime form, which the Blue Jackets will look to leverage in upcoming seasons. 3. **Team Development**: Retaining Fabbro aligns with the Blue Jackets' broader strategy to build a competitive roster capable of making a playoff push in the near future. This contract extension not only reflects the team's confidence in Fabbro's abilities but also sets the stage for a more robust defensive strategy moving forward [https://www.nhl.com/news/dante-fabbro-signs-4-year-contract-to-remain-with-columbus-blue-jackets][https://www.nbcsports.com/nhl/news/giroux-re-signs-with-senators-blue-jackets-lock-up-fabbro-to-4-year-16-5m-contract].