Blue Jackets extend Steve Mason
It has been reported that the Columbus Blue Jackets have extended goaltender Steve Mason. The goalie is said to have signed a two-year extension worth $5.8 million. The Ontario native is set to earn $2.6 million in his first season and $3.2 million in his second.
Mason was drafted 69th overall by the Blue Jackets in the third round of the 2006 National Hockey League entry draft. After being selected the youngster was sent back to the Ontario Hockey League to play out his final years of junior eligibility. In 2008-09
Mason made the Blue Jackets out of camp, quickly taking over the starting goaltender spot. In his first year with Columbus, Mason had an outstanding season, positing incredible numbers. The rookie notched 30 wins to go along with a .916 save-percentage (SV%),
a 2.29 goals-against-average (GAA) and 10 shutouts. Mason’s spectacular season helped the Blue Jackets on to their first ever post-season appearance. Mason was also awarded the Calder Trophy as the League’s best rookie and received a nomination for the Vezina
as the League’s top goaltender. However, last season Mason and Blue Jackets struggled. They were unable to make the play-offs and the 20-year-old was one of the worst starters in the League.
The extension was a smart move by the Blue Jackets brass. Although Mason struggled through the 2009-10 campaign goalies are known to go through sophomore slumps, only to bounce back the following season. Moreover, the youngster has shown that he is capable
of outstanding seasons in goal. In addition, his numbers from last season reflected the poor play of the entire Blue Jackets squad. Mason did show promise with five shutouts last season, displaying that he still have the ability to steal a game.
Last season with Columbus, Mason managed 20 wins, a .901 SV% and a GAA of 3.06 in 58 games.
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