Columbus Blue Jackets Trade Rumors

Trade rumors continue to surround the Columbus Blue Jackets for the 2011-2012 NHL offseason. The Blue Jackets are looking to vault into the playoffs next season in a difficult western conference. They are looking to aquire a top line forward to play with Rick Nash to give them the boost they need. Their first round pick, number 8 overall in the 2011 Entry Draft, is the trade bait.

The Blue Jackets are interested in Ales Hemsky or Jeff Carter. Hemsky is a long time Columbus killer and looks great on a top line. The Blue Jackets could aquire Hemsky straight up for the 8th draft pick. The other option is to trade for Carter. To acquire Carter, a player such as Jakub Voracek needs to go along with the draft pick. The Edmonton Oilers and Philadelphia Flyers are in trade discussions with the Columbus Blue Jackets.