Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell Hints at Potential Trade Shortly
Saturday night's 5-1 Montreal Canadiens win over the Columbus Blue Jackets came with some buzzworthy news.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman said Columbus blueliner David Jiř�ček is on the verge of being traded, as GM Don Waddell, hopes to sort things out over the next few days.
Jiř�ček's frustration with virtually no playing time has been building. The 19-year-old defenseman, brimming with potential, has been stuck in limbo, and now it's clear the rebuilding squad eager for young franchise stars, faces a tough call on his future.
Since being selected 6th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, Jiř�ček's journey has been a rocky one.
Despite his immense potential, the young defenseman has struggled to secure a consistent role at the NHL level, leaving both the team and fans frustrated.
Now, speculation is heating up about Jiř�ček's willingness to report to the Cleveland Monsters of the AHL if demoted. If he declines, the Blue Jackets could be forced into a tough position, with a trade becoming the most likely outcome.
Sending Jiř�ček down to the AHL's Cleveland Monsters would get him back on the ice, but it's unlikely to soothe his frustrations.
The better move might be exploring a trade, giving Jiř�ček a fresh start with a team that's ready to make him an everyday player.
It's a tough pill to swallow for Columbus fans, who know Jiř�ček's potential. For a player of his caliber, a resolution is critical-whether it's in Columbus or with a fresh start elsewhere.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 18 | 44 ANSWERS Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell Hints at Potential Trade Shortly What should the Columbus Blue Jackets do about David Jiř�ček? | ||
| Keep him on the NHL roster | 7 | 15.9 % |
| Send him to the AHL | 17 | 38.6 % |
| Trade him for immediate help | 12 | 27.3 % |
| Hold tight | 8 | 18.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
