Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff notes that the Columbus Blue Jackets are one of the trade deadline’s biggest wild cards. He writes that there are at least four significant names that could be out there and on the move ahead of March 21. He lists, Max Domi, Joonas Korpisalo, and Jack Roslovic as players whose names have been mentioned. He adds, forward Alexandre Texier to the list.
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The Blue Jackets have been taking calls on Texier and he has generated significant interest from around the league. With 11 goals and 26 points in 36 games this season, he would be on pace for 25 goals in 82 games. That’s the kind of production a number of teams would like to add to their playoff rosters. He’s also got one more season on his current deal at $1.525 million before he becomes an RFA with arbitration rights.
Seravalli writes the Blue Jackets are believed to be asking for a first-round pick as well as a roster player in exchange for Texier.
Not everyone is on the same page as Seravalli when it comes to Texier being potentially available. He’s currently out with an injury and reports are that he has returned home to France as he’s still “a few weeks away” from returning to Columbus following his finger fracture.
Some reports note there is “no truth” that Columbus is taking calls on the player.
Other Players on the Move
Max Domi is a pending unrestricted free agent with a $5.3 million AAV, and some salary retention will likely have to be involved for a team to show interest. Domi was, at one point, considered a top-six forward. Today, he’s likely a third-liner who can move up if he gets hot.
Korpisalo has been mentioned often in rumors involving teams looking for goaltending help but his numbers are merely pedestrian. He’s not a starter for most teams looking for a big upgrade. That said, he does have experience and could be a solid backup with the potential to play a 1B role if needed.
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