Columbus Blue Jackets Rumors: Defenseman Becoming Free-Agent Target

The Columbus Blue Jackets already made their first major addition of the offseason, acquiring Ivan Provorov from the Philadelphia Flyers. Yet, it appears that they want to continue to bolster their defensive group, as NHL insider Elliotte Friedman said on his 32 Thoughts podcast that there are rumors that the Blue Jackets are interested in soon-to-be unrestricted free agent Dmitry Orlov.

Friedman on 32TP says CBJ called the Devils asking about Damon Severson, they were out looking for D with term eventually they ended up with Provorov. Also there were rumours out there connecting them to Orlov, Jarmo is being aggressive in his pursuit of defencemen.
— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) June 7, 2023

Orlov is one of the top defensemen set to hit the free-agent market this summer. Although the Boston Bruins would love to keep him around, it is highly unlikely because of their very limited cap space. As a result, Columbus will very likely have the opportunity to pursue Orlov in free agency.

Orlov would provide the Blue Jackets with another top-four defenseman as they aim to bounce back from what was a disastrous 2022-23 season. In 66 regular-season games this season, the 31-year-old had seven goals to go along with 36 points. He also posted eight assists in seven playoff games for the Bruins during their collapse.

It will be intriguing to see what happens with Orlov from here, but expect to see the Blue Jackets in the mix for his services given this latest development.