Columbus Blue Jackets sign defenseman Andrew Peeke

Embed from Getty Images Having just completed his third season at Notre Dame, Andrew Peeke totaled 119 games, 12 goals, 40 assists and a plus 20 rating. Peeke is a Columbus Blue Jackets second-round pick- No. 34 in 2016, he agreed to a three-year entry-level deal.

Andrew Peeke, was captain of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish hockey team this season. He is a big, mobile defenseman that plays great in his own zone and gets the puck moving up ice quickly. Andrew Peeke is not a player that will put up great offensive numbers. For the Columbus Blue Jackets he does not need to.

It is a safe bet however, the Blue Jackets will encourage Peeke to shoot the puck more.  Andrew has a terrific shot and had an 8.8% shooting last season. In a move that is not typically seen in Columbus, Andrew Peeke is headed to the Blue Jackets, not the Cleveland Monsters.

The team is willing to burn through the first year of his entry level contract. The Blue Jackets have a log jam of talented defensive players, the team obviously sees something in Peeke that can help them coming down the stretch and into the playoffs.

Many NHL teams covet and put a premium on defenseman who are right handed puck movers. Which is exactly what Andrew Peeke is. Not only that but Andrew has  great size and strength. Strength is something that usually hampers rookies. Making his three seasons at Notre Dame valuable.

Andrew Peeke projects as a shutdown defenseman with some offensive upside. He should fit in with the Blue Jackets pretty quickly. During his time in college Peeke was a model of consistency. That is a trait general managers and coaches prize above all else.

Andre Peeke said he likes to watch a player like Seth Jones, a two-way player who can shut opponents down in the defensive zone while adding something in the offensive end, the two players are now teammates.

Andrew Peeke is expected to arrive in Columbus Ohio,  Monday afternoon.