Adam Fantilli contract stalemate hinders Blue Jackets' roster decisions
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 23, 2026, 3:56 AM
Last updated Sep 23, 2026
Columbus Blue Jackets forward Adam Fantilli remains a restricted free agent without a contract as the team has completed Training Camp and held its first exhibition game. NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman reports that the contract dispute is complicating roster management, particularly regarding Kirill Marchenko's impending decision on his own contract. Friedman suggested that clarity on Fantilli’s contract is crucial for the Blue Jackets to avoid further salary cap issues. Fantilli was selected third overall in the 2023 NHL Draft and made his NHL debut on his 19th birthday, scoring 12 goals in his rookie season before a calf injury cut it short.
- •Fantilli has not reported for training camp amid contract negotiations.
- •Blue Jackets are facing uncertainty with player contracts, including Marchenko.
- •Friedman emphasizes the importance of resolving Fantilli's contract for future roster moves.
- •Fantilli was the third overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.
- •He scored 12 goals and 15 assists in his debut season before injury.
- 3:56 AMYahoo Sports — NHL rumors: Adam Fantilli contract impasse is 'holding back' Blue Jackets, says Friedman
"While the Columbus Blue Jackets have wrapped up Training Camp and played their first exhibition contest, one player who has not reported is, unfortunately, one of their most important forwards. Forward Adam Fantilli , who recently wrapped up his entry-level contract, remains a restricted free agent without a contract. This is a worrying sign for […] The post NHL rumors: Adam Fantilli contract impasse is 'holding back' Blue Jackets, says Friedman appeared first on ClutchPoints.
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