Columbus Blue Jackets Rumors: 3 Free Agents to Target This Offseason

Welcome to NHL Trade Rumors' 2023 Free-Agent Targets series. During it, we will be discussing three pending unrestricted free agents that each team should aim to sign.

In this latest episode, we will be looking at the Columbus Blue Jackets. Although they have had an atrocious season, they are expected to be very active this summer in hopes of turning things back around.

J.T. Compher: The Blue Jackets tried to improve down the middle before the deadline passed, as they were heavily linked to Kevin Hayes from the Philadelphia Flyers. As a result, it is fair to argue that they will be looking to add a center this offseason. J.T. Compher stands out as a prime target because of this, as he is only 28 years old and is having a career season with the Colorado Avalanche. In 75 games, he has 16 goals and 50 points.

Ryan Graves: The Blue Jackets have already been linked to Ryan Graves, and it ultimately makes sense. They need to improve the left side of their defensive group, and Graves would provide them with a legitimate top-four defenseman if signed. In 73 games this season with the New Jersey Devils, he has seven goals, 23 points, and a plus-28 rating.

Damon Severson: The Blue Jackets could also look at another current Devil in Damon Severson. It is apparent that the right side of their defensive group needs a major boost, and Severson would give them just that. The 28-year-old is also having a strong season, as he has six goals and 24 assists in 75 games.