Jet Greaves Gets New Contract in Columbus

With the Columbus Blue Jackets offering $ 2.8 million a season, and Jet Greaves asking for $ 7.5 million a season, it appeared as if arbitration was the only way to settle a contract. Before that could happen, however, the two parties came to an agreement early today that will see Jet Greaves make $5 million a year for the next 3 years. I think it's a fair contract and a good meet-in-the-middle price for a goaltender full of promise. 

Jet, who will turn 26 on August 30th, started 53 of the 55 games he appeared in last season. His record was 26-19-9. Considering it was his first full season in the NHL, it's impressive to see his talent we saw at the tail end of the 2024-25 season carry over. His record that year was 7-2-2 after starting 11 games. He also stayed consistent in save percentage, having a .928 in 2024-25 and a .908 in 2025-26.  But, Heather, those numbers are far apart. Sure, but when you account for 11 games compared to 55, the sample size grew, but he was still above a .900, making him one of the league's most consistent goalies. His goals-against average was also stellar, with a 1.91 in 2024-25 and a 2.60 in 2025-26. Again, larger sample size but still amongst the best in the league. 

Now, I'm sure some will argue that Jet is worth the 7.5 million he was asking for. Consider that in 3 years, when this contract is up, we will have to expand on whatever we give him now to keep him happy and in Columbus. It's far easier for us to expand on $5 million than $7.5 million, especially when we have other young, promising players still in need of a contract now, and in 3 years when Jet is due his next deal. Bonus food for thought: it does appear that Elvis Merzlikins will be here this season. So, with Jet and Elvis making around the same amount, it cuts down on any drama that could start. Keeping everybody happy is always the best business policy, especially when you consider how much Jet and Elvis need each other on the same page for the betterment of the team dynamic as a whole. We only have two goalies! And, for those annoyed that I compared Jet and Elvis, consider that arbitration would've only yielded a 1- or 2-year contract somewhere between $2.8 and $7.5 million. Jet could've easily made less than $5 million, and further, if you double what Jet asked for, $7.5 million, it comes out to the $15 million his contract ended up being. So, kicking in an extra season/year got Jet the amount he wanted, and kept this out of arbitration, with a solid pay increase for him. It's a win-win in my book, and I can't wait to see what numbers Jet adds to his career starting in October! 

Congratulations, Jet!   



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