The Columbus Blue Jackets, in their quest for forward help ahead of the upcoming season, are exploring all avenues, including the trade market, according to TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston. The recent signing of James van Riemsdyk to a one-year deal worth $900,000 was just the beginning for the Blue Jackets, who are looking to further bolster their forward lines.
General Manager Don Waddell expressed the team’s ongoing pursuit of another forward, stating, “After that signing, I still want to get at least one more forward in house.” Johnston elaborated on Waddell’s approach, highlighting the team’s willingness to think outside the box, “The sense is that the Blue Jackets are willing to be creative in how they do that. I don’t think it will necessarily come in the form of another UFA. They’ll look at PTOs, they’ll look at the waiver wire.”
Moreover, Johnston revealed that the Blue Jackets are actively engaging in trade discussions, with a focus on potential opportunities arising from other teams’ roster complications. Waddell emphasized the team’s patience in the process, indicating a preference for acquiring a forward via trade rather than through traditional free agency channels.
Waddell’s confirmation of ongoing trade talks was noted by Aaron Portzline of The Athletic, who added that a deal did not appear imminent. Despite the lack of immediate progress, the Blue Jackets possess significant cap space, with an NHL-high of $24.8 million, per PuckPedia. With 23 players currently on the roster, the team has flexibility to explore various options without compromising future draft picks.
While the Blue Jackets may be without a second-round pick in the 2025 and 2026 drafts, they retain all of their first-round selections moving forward. As they navigate the trade market in search of additional forward firepower, the Blue Jackets are poised to make calculated moves to address their roster needs. Stay tuned for further developments as the team seeks to strengthen its lineup ahead of the upcoming season.
