Johnny Gaudreau finally has been enjoying some quiet time.

He's been able to visit with family and friends in his native New Jersey and played the Checking for Charity hockey tournament last weekend.

It's been a welcome respite from the whirlwind of changes that had been going on for most the past month.

He's got a new contract with a new team, and a new baby on the way.

"It's been a crazy month," Gaudreau said. "Obviously right now just spending time with my family, enjoying the summer, seeing friends and people I don't get to see throughout the year, so it's been pretty mellow for now."

Gaudreau's busy offseason began when Calgary Flames general manager Brad Treliving announced July 12 the forward would enter free agency after he tied former Florida Panthers forward Jonathan Huberdeau for second in the NHL last season with 115 points (40 goals, 75 assists) in 82 games.

A day later, Gaudreau stunned the hockey world by signing with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

He's visited Columbus once, touring the Blue Jackets facilities and some areas around town. He and his wife, Meredith, are working on buying a house while waiting for the couple's first child to arrive sometime in September.