As he embarks on his third complete professional season as an NHL defenseman, Jordan Harris believes that the best is still ahead.

He also believes that this makes him an ideal match for Columbus.

Harris, who was traded to the Blue Jackets on Monday, arrives in the capital city to find a team and organization eager for success, having missed the postseason for the last four seasons.

Simply put, the team, much like Harris himself, has a great deal to prove.

He expressed in a Zoom call on Tuesday, “As a person, I am always of the belief that there’s more to give. Whether as a player or as an individual, I am convinced I can offer more. I am fully aware of my game’s strengths and my abilities, and I am certain that there’s more in me to contribute.”

“I strongly believe that there’s much more to offer, which aligns perfectly with the team’s mentality. Both the team and the fans are eager. There is plenty of enthusiasm around.”

Harris, a defenseman who shoots left, has a record of eight goals and 32 points from 131 career games with Montreal. The majority of his last two seasons have been spent with the Habs, following a four-year stint at Northeastern University. Born in Haverhill, Massachusetts, Harris played for Team USA in the 2019-20 World Juniors and was selected by Montreal in the third round of the 2018 draft.

To put it simply, this 24-year-old has impressive credentials and anticipates further development in his game. He believes Columbus, based on his previous games against the Blue Jackets and positive reviews about the city and organization from his former CBJ teammate in Montreal, David Savard, is an ideal location. His belief is also influenced by feedback from current and ex-Ohio State players from Massachusetts, such as Mason Lohrei, Gunnarwolfe Fontaine, Jake Wise, and national champion women’s player Cayla Barnes.

“He said, ‘I had the opportunity to play there during my rookie year, and the experience was absolutely phenomenal. The atmosphere, coupled with the thrill of the cannon, was incredibly exciting. The excitement and rowdiness make it seem like an ideal place to play. David Savard and other friends who attended Ohio State have nothing but praise for Columbus, the area, and the organization. Therefore, I am genuinely thrilled about everything.'”

Harris also knows Sean Monahan, who recently signed a five-year contract with Columbus following his time playing with Montreal and Winnipeg last year. He’s also met Johnny Gaudreau a few times while skating in Massachusetts. Gaudreau, also known as Johnny Hockey, was a notable player at Boston College.

Therefore, settling in with the Blue Jackets shouldn’t consume much time, and Harris expressed his eagerness to commence.

“Harris commented, “This feels like a team that’s eager and young, still working to establish their credibility. That matches where I am in my career. Though I’ve been playing for a few years, I feel like I have much more to offer. I’m certainly eager to demonstrate that. With new management and a new coach, there are many exciting elements in place.”

Harris remarked on the numerous elements involved in transitioning from college to the NHL. These range from the doubled number of games compared to NCAA hockey, to the varied lifestyles players lead outside the rink. Harris believes that everything he has learned through this process will benefit him in his future career as a player. Last season, he achieved a 3-11-14 line and a minus-5 rating in 56 games with the Habs.

“Now that I have a better grasp on things and some experience under my belt, I feel ready to showcase my abilities that I’ve improved over the summer,” he said. “Even though I’m not the largest defenseman, there are plenty of techniques I can use to defend effectively and join the rush. I also have some offensive skills I’d like to further develop without compromising my defensive strengths.”

“There’s plenty of good stuff that I’ve been working on, and I strongly believe that I can offer more. I’m excited to showcase it.”

Harris revealed that, despite being a left-shot defenseman, he is also capable of playing on the right side. He did this during his freshman year at Northeastern and again in the previous season with the Canadiens. He discovered about the trade while shopping for a table for his Massachusetts apartment at HomeGoods yesterday.

“He said, laughing, “It certainly wasn’t what I expected going into HomeGoods.”

CBJ fans should enjoy getting to know Harris, who is a biracial, Jewish member of the NHL/NHLPA Player Inclusion Coalition. This coalition was formed in recent years to aid in expanding the game. Upon his arrival in Columbus, Harris hopes to continue in this role and contribute to the growth of the sport.

“He expressed his sentiment, “I consider myself extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to play the wonderful sport of hockey daily. However, life extends beyond just hockey. It’s about the influence we have on others and the contributions we make to our community. I am keenly looking forward to making a positive difference in Columbus. This is a cause we are deeply passionate about and are definitely committed to pursuing.”