Ryan Murray signed a two-year contract extension with the Blue Jackets on Thursday.

Murray signed a two-year contract extension with the Blue Jackets on Thursday.

Analysis:

The extension is expected to net him $2.825 million annually, a solid bump from his entry level contract from 2012. General manager Jarmo Kekalainen described Murray as a "talented, smart player who has been a very steady performer on our blue line," and noted that the 22-year-old has earned himself more ice time through his improved play. Murray has averaged a solid 22:28 of ice time this season, and he has shown a willingness to sacrifice his body on the defensive end (114 blocked shots). His new deal will keep him in Columbus for at least a couple more seasons, but it wouldn't be surprising if the team looks for a longer extension later if he continues to polish his game.