Blue Jackets Rumors: Elvis Merzlikins Linked to Division Rival

Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Elvis Merzlikins made headlines earlier this week when he confirmed that he has requested a trade out of Columbus. This came after he expressed clear frustration being the team's third-string goaltender. As a result of all of this, the Blue Jackets are naturally listening to offers for him. According to The Fourth Period, the New Jersey Devils are linked to him.

Trade Watch List: Chychrun, Walker, Tarasenko added with 5 more on the Bubble List https://t.co/o8xZV6nTTF

— The Fourth Period (@TFP) January 16, 2024

Hearing that the Devils are eyeing Merzlikins is entirely understandable. Their goaltending this season has been inconsistent, and they are looking for a big boost between the pipes because of it. Merzlikins would provide them with a legitimate starter as they look to jump in the NHL standings and would also take some pressure away from Vitek Vanecek to be the guy in the net. 

While Merzlikins' playing time has dropped as the season went on, he is still having a solid season for the Blue Jackets. In 24 games, he has an 8-8-6 record to go along with a .906 SV%. 

The Devils are going to be buyers at the deadline, and their biggest goal should be to add a goalie. They have been connected to goaltenders like John Gibson, Jake Allen, and Jacob Markstrom. Now, Merzlikins is another goalie to watch from here. 

photo credit:  John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports