Blue Jackets GM makes Roster Move with Top Prospect David Jiricek Following Trade Rumors

After months of speculation surrounding David Jiricek, many have expected that at some point throughout the season, the talented young prospect will find his way onto the trade block.

Now, those rumours have only intensified, with the team making the surprise move to send him back to the AHL's Cleveland Monsters, a move that has only sparked more speculation surrounding this team.

At just 20-years of age, Jiricek has played in 50 games at the NHL level over the past three seasons, but with the team having a blue line loaded with veteran talent, there's just no room for him in the current set up.

In six games played this season, Jiricek, who stands at 6-foot-4 has tallied just one assist, but after posting immense production at the AHL level, it's clear that he's ready for a longer leash at the NHL level.

After the move, General Manager Don Waddell commented on the situation, revealing that he believes playing on the blue line in the NHL is a very tough job, and he believed that giving Jiricek a bigger role in the AHL would be better for his development at this point in time.

Given Jiricek's trade value, it makes sense that opposing teams would be keeping a close eye on this situation, but for now, it appears as though he's very happy with the way Jiricek has developed, especially in the AHL.

With such a veteran group on the blue line in the NHL, Columbus don't have a way to find Jiricek consistent minutes right now, so if they can find a way to move the likes of Ivan Provorov or Damon Severson, it may finally open up a significant role for Jiricek.