- Dec 26, 2016
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Columbus Extends Goalie Xavier Bussière: 4 Years, $9M
Despite his 6-13-1 record, the Columbus Blue Jackets have doubled down on Xavier Bussière, signing the struggling goaltender to a four-year, $9 million deal ($2.25M AAV).
Why This Deal is Controversial:
![Cross mark :x: ❌](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/274c.png)
![Cross mark :x: ❌](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/274c.png)
![Check mark button :white_check_mark: ✅](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/2705.png)
Columbus GM Shawn Kehler defended the signing, stating that Bussière needs time to develop. However, Detroit GM Zachary Pyatt, who was already mocking Bussière, is probably laughing even harder now.
Ottawa Senators Drama: James Richer Released After Argument with Management
The Ottawa Senators cut ties with 25-year-old RD James Richer after a heated argument with management.
![Small blue diamond :small_blue_diamond: 🔹](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/1f539.png)
![Small blue diamond :small_blue_diamond: 🔹](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/1f539.png)
With his low offensive production and struggles to secure a permanent roster spot, it seems like Ottawa decided he wasn’t worth the headache. Now, Richer will likely look for another NHL opportunity or a move overseas.
Former Sens 1st-Rounder EJ Emery Signs in Denmark
Former Ottawa Senators first-round pick EJ Emery has left North America, signing with Esbjerg Energy in Denmark.
![Small blue diamond :small_blue_diamond: 🔹](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/1f539.png)
![Small blue diamond :small_blue_diamond: 🔹](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/1f539.png)
While Emery put up solid offensive numbers in Finland, he never quite cracked an NHL lineup. Now, he'll continue his career in Denmark’s top league, possibly hoping for a future return to North America.
World Championship Selections Announced
Several top NHL players have been called up to represent their countries in the upcoming World Championships.
Team USA
![Police car light :rotating_light: 🚨](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/1f6a8.png)
![Check mark :heavy_check_mark: ✔️](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/2714.png)
Team Canada
![Check mark :heavy_check_mark: ✔️](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/2714.png)
![Check mark :heavy_check_mark: ✔️](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/2714.png)
![Check mark :heavy_check_mark: ✔️](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/2714.png)
Team Sweden
![Check mark :heavy_check_mark: ✔️](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/2714.png)
Team Switzerland
![Check mark :heavy_check_mark: ✔️](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/2714.png)
Team Finland
![Check mark :heavy_check_mark: ✔️](https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/twitter/twemoji@14.0.2/assets/72x72/2714.png)
With Zegras out, Team USA takes a hit, while Canada brings in experience with Chabot. Meanwhile, Sweden, Switzerland, and Finland all have key pieces ready to go.
What’s Next?
- Where will James Richer land next?
- Can Xavier Bussière prove he’s worth $9M?
- Will EJ Emery thrive in Denmark or fade away?
- Who will shine in the World Championships?
With the offseason and international play heating up, expect more movement, more controversy, and more drama in the coming weeks.