The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed Head Coach John Tortorella to a one-year contract extension through the 2018-19 season, Columbus General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen announced on Monday.
Tortorella, who joined Columbus in 2015, has led the Blue Jackets to an 84-57-16 record and .586 points percentage during his tenure.
“John Tortorella and his coaching staff have done a terrific job since his arrival nearly two years ago,” said Kekalainen (h/t NHL.com). “He is one of the top coaches in our game and we are excited about what lies ahead for our club with John as our head coach.”
Tortorella won the Jack Adams Award as the NHL’s coach of the year after leading the Blue Jackets (50-24-8 record and 108 points) to the best season in the club’s 17-year history last season.
“I’m very appreciative of the opportunity I have to coach this team and be part of a wonderful community that has been very welcoming to my family, so I thank the McConnell family, Mike Priest, John Davidson, Jarmo Kekalainen, our staff and the entire organization,” said Tortorella.
“I’m proud of the steps we’ve taken as a team and I look forward to continuing to work with a very good group of coaches and players.”