NHL Rumors: Columbus Blue Jackets Linked to Sharks Defenseman

The Columbus Blue Jackets currently have the least amount of points in the NHL, so they naturally are expected to be major sellers at the trade deadline. However, it also appears that they are not against adding to their roster for the future. There are reports going around that Columbus is interested in San Jose Sharks prospect Ryan Merkley.

Merkley recently requested a trade from San Jose. The major reason why he wants a change of scenery is that San Jose has not given him too many chances to play at the NHL level. As a result, being moved to a new team may be the best thing for the former first-round pick. With Columbus having such a bad year, they are in a position to take a chance on a former top prospect like Merkley.

We will need to wait and see if this interest leads to the Blue Jackets acquiring Merkley before the trade deadline passes. If it does come to fruition, there’s a good chance that Merkley would receive more NHL playing time before the season is over.