NHL Trade News: Daemon Hunt signs two-way contract with Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets have officially signed defenseman Daemon Hunt to a two-way contract for the 2025-26 season, concluding their roster of 43 players under contract. Hunt, 23, was the team’s last remaining unsigned restricted free agent and brings both NHL experience and AHL versatility.

Acquired from the Minnesota Wild in the David Jiricek trade last November, Hunt is expected to serve as a top recall option from the Cleveland Monsters while providing depth to the Jackets’ defensive corps.

Columbus Blue Jackets secure defenseman Daemon Hunt with two-way contract for 2025-26 season

Hunt’s signing is a key move for the Blue Jackets, who retained most of their defensive lineup from last season aside from veteran Jack Johnson. The two-way deal allows Columbus flexibility, as Hunt can play in the NHL or be assigned to the AHL’s Cleveland Monsters if needed.

This contract ensures the Jackets have a reliable left-handed defenseman ready to step in during injuries or lineup adjustments.A 2020 third-round pick, Hunt finished last season with the Monsters, recording 2 goals and 12 assists in 48 games while posting a -8 rating. While this marked a dip from his 2023-24 performance with Minnesota’s affiliate, the Iowa Wild, where he had 29 points in 51 games, it reflects his adjustment period in a new organization.

Despite limited NHL appearances, Hunt has shown promise; in 13 career NHL games (12 in 2023-24), he recorded one assist while maintaining strong possession metrics, including a 54.6 Corsi For percentage and a 57.1 expected goals for percentage at even strength.

Daemon Hunt’s 2025-26 outlook with Columbus Blue Jackets NHL depth two-way contract

With the Jackets’ defensive lineup largely intact, Hunt is unlikely to secure an opening-night roster spot. However, he is considered the top recall candidate alongside prospect Stanislav Svozil should injuries or other circumstances require reinforcement.

Hunt will also face waivers if the team wishes to assign him to Cleveland, a process he has yet to encounter in his professional career.Looking ahead, Hunt will become a restricted free agent again next summer, giving Columbus the chance to assess his development before committing long-term. His combination of NHL experience, strong possession metrics, and AHL versatility makes him a valuable depth piece for the Blue Jackets heading into the 2025-26 season.Daemon Hunt’s two-way deal secures the Blue Jackets’ defensive depth while providing him a clear pathway to contribute at the NHL level. As a top recall option from Cleveland, Hunt’s development will be closely watched, and his role could grow if injuries or opportunities arise. Columbus now closes its offseason free-agent chapter with a complete defensive roster ready for the season ahead.Also Read: Calgary Flames goalie Dustin Wolf confirms extension negotiations are underway