Blue Jackets sign veteran blueliner Martinek

The Columbus Blue Jackets further bolstered their defense on Wednesday by signing Radek Martinek to a one-year contract.

The 10-year veteran had spent his entire career with the New York Islanders, who made him their 12th-round pick in the 1999 Entry Draft. He skated in 64 games this past season, recording 3 goals and 16 points while averaging nearly 21 minutes of ice time.

"Radek Martinek has been a solid defenseman in the National Hockey League for several years and we think he will be a nice addition to our hockey club," Columbus General Manager Scott Howson said. "He is a smart, steady player who will provide character and experience on our blue line."

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Martinek has 21 goals and 103 points in 453 NHL games. A native of Havlicko Brod, Czech Republic, he also registered 30 goals and 83 points in 235 career games with Ceske Budejovice in the Czech Elite League from 1996-01. He represented his country at the 2000 and 2001 World Championships, helping the Czech Republic capture back-to-back gold medals.

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