Columbus Blue Jackets
Surprise Team Hoping to Roll Dice in Potential Brock Boeser Trade
There are reports that a surprise team might be hoping the Vancouver Canucks trade Brock Boeser and if they do, they’d be in the mix.
With the NHL trade deadline drawing closer, trade speculation surrounding Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser is heating up. A proven goal scorer who is having a bit of a down season, Boeser is a pending UFA and, given all the drama unfolding in Vancouver, could be a surprise trade ahead of the NHL trade deadline.
Boeser’s contract status has made him a prime target for teams waiting to see how the Canucks will handle their mess. The 27-year-old winger wants to stay but admitted he understands this is a business and he could be dealt if the Canucks fall out of contention.
One team that has surprised this season is the Columbus Blue Jackets. They are in the mix, and reports are they’re looking to be buyers.
Could the Blue Jackets Be Pitching the Canucks to Acquire Boeser?
The Blue Jackets, a franchise with cap space and assets to make a significant move, might be waiting to see if Boeser becomes available. Donnie and Dhali (h/t @BuckFoston) are reportedly linking the Blue Jackets in trade talk as they carefully weigh the risk versus reward of going all in and adding Boeser to their lineup. The report indicates, “The Blue Jackets appear to have a high regard for the player and have the cap room and assets to make an attractive pitch for his services on the trade market.”
Boeser’s expiring contract is a risk that might be worth taking. On one hand, he’s a rental. He’ll be a costly add, but perhaps not as costly as trading for someone like Elias Pettersson or J.T. Miller. There is no guarantee Boeser would re-sign with the Blue Jackets, so they would need assurance he’d be open to it, or be comfortable that he’s potentially leaving.
The plus side of things is that he would easily push the Blue Jackets forward in their quest to be a contender this season. If the Blue Jackets could snag a high-impact player without committing long-term, it would help ensure they’re in the post-season mix. Once in, anything can happen.
Would the Canucks Be Retooling If They Trade Boeser?
Trading Boeser could provide the Canucks with draft picks or young talent. If they wind up trading Miller and Boeser, there will be talk of a retool or rebuild. In that case, picks and prospects become important.
As of now, this is just speculation. But, don’t be shocked if the Blue Jackets make a push to acquire a difference-maker at the deadline. They hold the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference and that organization wants to reward their players. They’ve been through a lot over the past several months.
Next: Klingberg Joins Oilers at Practice, Role Hints at Status vs. Capitals
More News
