The Columbus Blue Jackets are banking on their defense to take a significant leap forward in the 2025-26 season if they hope to contend for a playoff spot. A key component of this aspiration rests on the shoulders of their second defensive pairing, which carries a hefty $15 million price tag. This duo, likely composed of Ivan Provorov and Damon Severson, needs to provide a much greater return on investment than they did last season.
Ivan Provorov's new seven-year contract, with an $8.5 million average annual value (AAV), has been a subject of much debate. Some analysts have described it as an overpayment for a defenseman who hasn't quite lived up to the expectations placed upon him earlier in his career. While Provorov is a reliable player who can contribute offensively, his contract demands a performance that aligns with a top-pairing defenseman, a role he may not be suited for. Despite criticisms, some believe that with the salary cap increasing, Provorov's contract may not look as bad in a few years.
Damon Severson, on the other hand, is entering the third year of his current deal, and his performance has also been underwhelming. At 31 years old, it's unlikely that he will drastically improve, so the Blue Jackets need him to at least meet expectations.
Last season, the Blue Jackets' defense was a weak point, as they ranked 25th in goals against per game. To improve, the team needs Provorov and Severson to be a steady and reliable presence on the ice. The team's general manager is hoping that a healthy and intact defense will result in improved defensive numbers.
There are different opinions on what the defensive pairings should be for the Blue Jackets. One suggested pairing is Zach Werenski with Dante Fabbro, Provorov with Erik Gudbranson, and Denton Mateychuk with Severson. Another suggested pairing is Werenski and Fabbro, Mateychuk and Provorov, and Severson and Gudbranson.
The success of Provorov and Severson as a pairing will depend on their ability to complement each other's strengths and weaknesses. If they can find chemistry and provide stability on the second pairing, it will allow Werenski and Fabbro to continue to excel in their roles. It could also allow Mateychuk to be sheltered on the third pairing.
Ultimately, the Blue Jackets need more from their $15 million second pair if they hope to make a playoff push in 2025-26. Provorov and Severson must elevate their game and provide the stability and defensive prowess that the team desperately needs. If they can do that, the Blue Jackets' defense, as a whole, should improve, increasing their chances of success.
