Who knew a change of scenery could be so rewarding?
Conor Garland’s fresh start with the Columbus Blue Jackets is off to a flying start. The dynamic winger is lighting up the scoreboard, thriving in a top-six role, and helping Columbus rack up wins.
Garland is already making his mark on Blue Jackets history after just a week on the ice.
His new environment offers opportunities that weren't as available during his time with the Vancouver Canucks.
“I just feel like, the way they play, they compete,” Garland shared. “They’re very serious about their craft, and it’s just a fun group to be a part of.”
Life in Ohio isn’t just about on-ice success for Garland; there’s a financial upside too.
One key factor? A significant boost to his bank account.
Canada’s high tax rates have often been a sticking point for players considering NHL teams north of the border. Brad Marchand mentioned it as a reason the Florida Panthers kept their roster intact after winning the 2025 Stanley Cup. Even Jamie Benn joked about it when discussing Tyler Myers joining the Dallas Stars.
While Garland was dedicated enough to the Canucks to sign a long-term extension, the financial perks of joining the Blue Jackets are undeniable.
His new six-year, $36 million contract starts on July 1, and moving to Columbus means Garland will save millions in taxes.
Ohio may not boast zero state income tax like Texas, Florida, Nevada, or Washington, but it does offer one of the lowest rates in the U.S.
Ohio’s state tax on income over $100,000 is 3.1 percent. Combined with the federal top bracket of 37 percent, the total comes to 40.1 percent.
Contrast that with British Columbia, where the top tax bracket hits a hefty 20.5 percent, bringing the total for high earners like Garland to 53.5 percent.
So, what does this mean for his take-home pay?
Considering other deductions like Medicare, Social Security in the U.S., and the Canada Pension Plan, Garland’s take-home pay for his first season with a $6 million salary looks much healthier.
Over the six-year span of his contract, the 30-year-old will save just under $4 million in taxes ($3,933,240).
Plus, real estate in Columbus might offer some additional savings.
Of course, the actual difference in Garland’s take-home pay will be slightly less after accounting for jock taxes, escrows, and agent fees. But no matter how you slice it, Garland’s move to Ohio is paying off in more ways than one.