What happened: Columbus confirmed the agreement Tuesday for the 2026-27 season. Goaltender Cam Talbot enters his 14th NHL season.
Why it matters: The structure pays for availability, with incentives climbing by games played. A sub-$1M base preserves room for later roster moves.
By the numbers: $100K at 10 games played, $150K at 20, $200K at 30 and $250K at 40.
What to watch: Camp opens next, with preseason starts showing how the crease splits.