The Columbus Blue Jackets signed restricted free-agent forward Adam Fantilli to a six-year, $82.5 million extension running through the 2031-32 season. The deal carries a $13.75 million average annual value, the largest in franchise history. Fantilli, 21, has produced 140 points, including 67 goals and 73 assists, in 213 career games since Columbus selected him No. 3 overall in the 2023 draft. He has appeared in all 82 games in each of the past two seasons and is projected to become Columbus’ No. 1 center. Fantilli had missed training camp during the contract standoff but said he was eager to return after his agent told him the agreement could be completed. The Blue Jackets open the regular season next Thursday at home against the Buffalo Sabres.