Time is ticking away, and November has brought an unusual kind of stress to the NHL. Teams are feeling the heat just a month and a half into the season, with coaching changes, small trades, and hints that some teams are ready to make big moves. Despite all this activity, no major trades have happened yet. But it seems like it’s only a matter of time before the Blue Jackets trade defenseman David Jiricek.
Columbus is deep in talks about moving Jiricek. GM Don Waddell has been busy making sure he’s explored every option across the league. The New York Rangers are also eager to make changes, along with teams like Ottawa Senators, Nashville Predators, Pittsburgh Penguins, and maybe even Boston Bruins.
Fans might wonder if their favorite player will be part of these upcoming trades.
Trade Targets
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David Jiricek
Right Defense | Columbus Blue Jackets
Age: 20 | Stats: 6 GP, 0 G, 1 A
Contract: $918K for one year
Scoop: Drafted sixth overall in 2022 but hasn’t been given much chance to shine due to being shuffled between leagues and benched for older players like Jack Johnson. -
Marcus Pettersson
Left Defense | Pittsburgh Penguins
Age: 28 | Stats: 23 GP, 1 G, 8 A
Contract: UFA at $4M
Scoop: With real trade value on his final contract year but struggles with puck handling could limit interest. -
Morgan Frost
Center | Philadelphia Flyers
Age: 25 | Stats: 18 GP, 2 G, 6 A
Contract: RFA at $2.1M
Scoop: Needs a fresh start; previously showed potential as a high scorer but recently faced challenges under Tortorella’s coaching style. -
Rasmus Ristolainen
Right Defense | Philadelphia Flyers
Age: 30 | Stats: 22 GP, 1 G, 4 A
Contract: Two years left at $5.1M
Scoop: Known for size but inconsistent defense; Flyers hope he gains enough attention for a good trade return by March. - Ivan Provorov
Right Defense | Columbus Blue Jackets
Age: 27 | Stats: 20 GP, 1 G, 5 A
Contract ends soon at $4.725M
Scoop: Interest rising as he approaches free agency; known for strong skating but salary retention limits options.
Fans might feel anxious about these potential changes impacting their team’s dynamics!
6-10… (list continues with similar structure)
What do you think? Will your favorite team make some bold moves or play it safe?
