Blue Jackets Rumors: 4 Teams Linked to Vladislav Gavrikov

According to David Pagnotta, the Toronto Maple Leafs, Ottawa Senators, Edmonton Oilers, and Los Angeles Kings are all expressing interest in Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov.

Gavrikov has been linked to the Leafs since the announcement of Jake Muzzin's long-term injury, so it isn't surprising that another source has Toronto making a push for him. He would provide them with a much-needed top-four left-shot defenseman as they aim to break their first-round playoff exit curse.

Ottawa's biggest issue is their defensive group right now, and Gavrikov would be a nice way to help remedy that. They need to make a move soon, as they have a 6-9-1 record and their playoff hopes are starting to decrease rapidly.

The Oilers sport one of the top forward groups in the league, but much like Ottawa and Toronto, they need help on defense. Gavrikov would work perfectly on their second pairing.

The Kings are aiming to move out their surplus of right-shot defensemen, but they also need to upgrade their left side.