The Columbus Blue Jackets announced a one‑year, two‑way contract for forward James Malatesta, a move that keeps the 27‑year‑old under contract through the upcoming season while giving him a clear path back to the NHL if he can rediscover his offensive rhythm.
A Fresh Opportunity for Malatesta
The deal guarantees Malatesta $850,000 at the NHL level and $95,000 in the AHL, a modest but strategic investment by the organization. In 57 games with the Cleveland Monsters this year he posted 10 goals and 18 points, while also leading the team with 87 penalty minutes, underscoring his reputation as a physical presence.
Over the past three seasons Malatesta has become the Monsters’ most penalized player, accumulating 215 minutes in 154 appearances, a testament to his willingness to engage in the gritty areas of the game. His junior pedigree remains impressive, having tallied 142 points in 155 contests with the Quebec Remparts from 2020 to 2023, a scoring output that still ranks third all‑time among the franchise’s alumni.
The Blue Jackets hope the new contract will provide the forward with the stability to experiment in the middle‑six lineup, where his blend of toughness and occasional scoring touch could translate into more consistent contributions. General manager Scott Howson emphasized that the move is about “giving James another chance to spark while embracing the bruising role that defines his identity on the ice.”