Blue Jackets bring back John Davidson, extend GM Kekalainen

The Columbus Blue Jackets signed John Davidson to a five-year contract to serve as their president of hockey operations, the team announced Thursday.

In addition, general manager Jarmo Kekalainen signed a contract extension that runs through the 2024-25 NHL season.

"This is an important time for our organization, and having stability and proven leadership at the top of our hockey operations department is critical for us to do what we want to do, which is bring a Stanley Cup championship to Columbus," Club president Mike Priest said. "Signing Jarmo to an extension and then bringing J.D. back gives us the right people to address the opportunities and challenges before us, and we couldn't be more excited."

Davidson previously held that same role for Columbus for seven seasons from 2012-2019. He resigned to serve as the Rangers' president for two years before being fired, along with New York general manager Jeff Gorton, on May 5.

The Blue Jackets didn't hire a replacement for Davidson after he left, allowing Kekalainen to fulfill both roles. Davidson will now oversee Kekalainen, according to The Athletic's Aaron Portzline.

Davidson guided the Blue Jackets to the franchise's most successful run, as the team made the playoffs four times in seven seasons during his reign.

The 68-year-old was responsible for hiring Kekalainen in 2013 after the two had previously worked together in the St. Louis Blues organization.

Davidson returns to the club at a critical time. The Blue Jackets are currently without a head coach following John Tortorella's departure. Additionally, sniper Patrik Laine is an impending restricted free agent, while defenseman Seth Jones is set to be an unrestricted free agent after next season.