NHL Trade Rumors: Ryan Johansen to Nashville Predators

The Columbus Blue Jackets are off to a poor start to the 2016 NHL season with a 8-14-0 record. Blue Jackets management has shown that their play is not acceptable and they are willing to move anyone to help rebuild their team. A likely candidate to be moved is center Ryan Johansen.

Darren Dreger points out on Insider Trading that the Blue Jackets aren’t actively trying to trade him, but that they are listening to offers for him. He also points out that his minutes have decreased recently under new head coach, John Tortorella.

Johansen has accumulated 4 goals and 12 assists in 20 games this season. He struggles with the defensive side of the game. At 23 years of age, he is signed to an average annual value contract of $4M through the 2016-17 season.

The Blue Jackets want a huge package in return for Johansen. The Toronto Maple Leafs, New Jersey Devils and Nashville Predators desperately need a top 6 center, and are interested in acquiring Ryan Johansen.