NHL Trade Rumors: Will there be a big exodus at Columbus Blue Jackets?

In the lead-up to the March 3 trade deadline, the Columbus Blue Jackets are expected to be busy sellers. The management is reportedly eyeing top prospect Connor Bedard in the upcoming NHL Draft and will do whatever it takes to improve their chances of winning the draft lottery. One player who has drawn significant trade interest is Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner.

According to hockey insider Elliotte Friedman, the Blue Jackets are considering a "sell job" on defenseman Jakob Chychrun, but they appear willing to take the chance given his term. Joonas Korpisalo and Gustav Nyquist are also said to be targeted by other teams, but it's Boone Jenner who has garnered the most attention.

Jenner has three more seasons on his contract with an annual cap hit of $3.7 million. He also holds a modified no-trade clause that protects him from being traded to eight teams. In 46 games this season, the 28-year-old center has recorded 32 points and his gritty style of play is perfect for the playoffs.

Teams in need of a center and looking to re-tool their lineups or playoff-bound teams are reportedly interested in acquiring Jenner. The Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, and Pittsburgh Penguins are among the teams that have been mentioned as potential suitors.

It remains to be seen whether the Blue Jackets will indeed part ways with their captain, but as the trade deadline approaches, the rumors are sure to heat up.

Columbus Blue Jackets 2022-23 season so far

So far, the Columbus Blue Jackets have had a difficult season. With a record of 18 wins, 34 losses, and 5 overtime losses, they currently sit in last place in the Metropolitan Division. They have the fewest points in the Eastern Conference, with 41 in 57 games played.

The team's struggles are reflected in its goal differential of -66, which is the worst in the Metropolitan Division and the third-worst in the league. They have also scored the fewest goals in the division (146), while allowing the second-most (212).

In terms of the playoff race, the Columbus Blue Jackets are currently 23 points behind the Florida Panthers, who hold the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. With only 24 games remaining in the regular season, it will be difficult for Columbus to make up that ground and qualify for the postseason.

On Friday, February 24, the Columbus Blue Jackets are set to host the Minnesota Wild at Nationwide Arena. The game is scheduled to begin at 5:30 a.m. E.T.