Blue Jackets Face Key Decisions on Pending UFAs
The Columbus Blue Jackets are at a crossroads with several of their pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs). With Charlie Coyle, Boone Jenner, Mason Marchment, and Erik Gudbranson's contracts up in the air, GM Don Waddell has expressed confidence in retaining them. "If guys want to stay here, I’ll find a way to keep them," Waddell stated, emphasizing the positive vibe around the organization.
Jenner and Gudbranson have been staples in Columbus, while Coyle and Marchment are relatively new faces. Their willingness to stay signals a healthy team environment.
The Blue Jackets must decide whether to re-sign Coyle and Marchment or explore trade options if negotiations stall. Both players are likely to attract interest, promising a decent return if traded.
Coyle, at 34, boasts a remarkable streak of 13 playoff appearances, though a championship has eluded him so far.
Rising Interest in Rasmus Ristolainen
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen has caught the eye of several teams following his strong Olympic performance for Finland. Although Ristolainen seems content where he is, sources indicate that five or six teams have shown interest.
If the Flyers opt to trade Ristolainen, they’re aiming for a significant return, akin to a first-round pick and a prospect. With one year left on his $5.1 million contract, acquiring him would mean two potential playoff runs for any interested team.
The Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers have reportedly inquired about Ristolainen. While the Bruins may not be entirely sold on him, they're exploring all options. The Oilers, on the other hand, would need to offload some salary, with Andrew Mangiapane potentially on the move.
Potential Suitors and Strategic Moves
Other teams that could make a play for Ristolainen include the Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, and Tampa Bay Lightning. The Stars might need to shuffle their roster, while the Red Wings have valuable assets like goaltender Sebastian Cossa. Meanwhile, the Lightning face challenges, lacking first-round picks in the coming drafts.
As the NHL trade landscape evolves, the Blue Jackets and Flyers have strategic decisions to make, balancing immediate needs with future aspirations.