3 Blue Jackets Most Likely to be Traded by Olympics
After a great start to the season, the Columbus Blue Jackets haven't been able to keep pace in the Eastern Conference, and enter Saturday's action at the bottom of the standings. CBJ has posted 18-18-7 record so far this season, and has fallen eight points out of a playoff spot, with a huge group of teams to leapfrog.
GM Don Waddell hasn't been shy pulling off some moves already this season and there's expectation that teams are calling him right now asking about a few of his players. Here's three Blue Jackets most likely to be traded:
Boone Jenner
The Blue Jackets leader is on the radar of several contenders as teams love his versatility, physicality, and intangibles off the ice. Jenner is a pending unrestricted free agent who owed $3.75 million AAV and owns a 8-team no-trade clause. Jenner's scored 21 points in 29 games and plays in all situations. There's going to be a ton of interest in Jenner, so expect to see Waddell get at least a first-rounder and a top prospect in return.
Elvis Merzlikins
It's been a rocky relationship for Merzlikins in Columbus, and there's been a couple of different instances where he wanted out. Merzlikins has posted 6-6-1 record with a 4.04 GAA and .877 save percentage. He's handed over the starter's gig to Jet Greaves and it seems like if Waddell can find the right fit, he'll certainly give Merzlikins a change of scenery, sooner than later. Merzlikins is signed for $5.4 million AAV through next season and owns a 10-team no-trade clause. Out of the three names discussed today, Merzlikins is certainly the 'least' likely of this trio.
Charlie Coyle
There aren't many veteran centers on the trade market and Coyle is certainly among one of the better players available. He's a pending free agent, earns $5.2 million, and has minimal trade protection on his contract. Coyle's first season in Columbus hasn't gone as planned, but he's put up decent numbers with 25 points in 43 games. The Blue Jackets should retain some of his salary, which will increase their return, and expect it to be a second-round pick and reasonable prospect.
Photo credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
