"That massive display of fireworks launched from the Arena District last night could easily have had a dual meaning.

The Blue Jackets were in full-blown celebration mode after signing captain Rick Nash to an eight-year, $62.4 million contract extension. The deal, which begins with the 2010-11 season, will pay Nash an average of $7.8 million per season.

"It's a very fair number," general manager Scott Howson said. "Rick made a statement to the team and the city that he's not out for every last dollar. He wanted to have a fair contract that allows us the flexibility to build the team around him.

"This is very exciting for all of us. We're glad it's done, and now we can get onto task of continuing to build this club."

Nash will make $7.5 million in 2010-11. The contract goes up about $100,000 per year before topping out at $8.2 million in 2017-18.

The two sides had discussed seven-year and 10-year contracts, and they were closing in on a seven-year deal late in the afternoon. The Blue Jackets, however, were not content with the annual cap hit of that deal and were pondering a counteroffer.

Nash didn't wait that long. He contacted his agent, Joe Resnick, and suggested an eighth year to help lower the annual salary cap hit. With that, the contract's final hurdle was cleared.

"This is where Rick wanted to be, right from Day 1," Resnick said. "He said to me all along, 'Let's get something done.' He believes in what the Blue Jackets are doing. He believes in his teammates. He truly loves that city."

The contract includes a no-movement clause in the first five seasons, meaning Nash cannot be traded, sent to the minors or put on waivers. There's a modified no-trade clause in the final three years. If the Blue Jackets want to trade Nash during that span, Nash will provide them with a list of approved destinations."