Blue Jackets sign 1st-round pick Carlsson to entry-level deal

The Columbus Blue Jackets signed defenseman Gabriel Carlsson to a three-year entry-level contract, general manager Jarmo Kekalainen announced Tuesday.

The 19-year-old was selected 29th overall in the first round of the 2015 NHL Draft. Playing in the Swedish Hockey League this past season, he recorded one goal and eight assists in 45 games with Linkoping.

"We are excited about his future as he is a smart, two-way defenseman who has a chance to be a very good player as he continues to grow and develop," Kekalainen said.

Carlsson also represented Sweden in the 2016 World Juniors, recording three assists in seven games, as his team finished fourth in the tournament.