Blue Jackets sign defenseman Ryan Murray to 2-year extension

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) The Columbus Blue Jackets signed defenseman Ryan Murray to a two-year, $5.65 million contract extension Thursday.

The 22-year-old Murray has four goals and 13 assists in 55 games this season, his third with Columbus. He was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2012 draft.

''Ryan Murray is a talented, smart player who has been a very steady performer on our blue line and we are extremely happy to have this deal completed,'' general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said in a statement. ''Ryan has earned more ice time, showed steady improvement and contributed in all situations for us throughout the season. We look forward to his continued growth and development with our club.''

Murray would have been a restricted free agent this summer.