NHL Rumors: Seattle Kraken Linked to Blue Jackets Defenseman

During the offseason, the Seattle Kraken acquired Oliver Bjorkstrand from the Columbus Blue Jackets. Now, it seems that these two clubs could end up striking another deal before the deadline passes, as Vladislav Gavrikov is the kind of defenseman Seattle desperately needs right now.

Gavrikov is one of the Blue Jackets' top trade candidates due to his pending UFA status. There's no question that several teams will want to add the top-four defenseman to their roster, and Seattle is likely to be one of them. The Kraken need a steady shutdown defenseman, and the 6-foot-3 Gavrikov will give them just that.

If the Kraken stay this hot as we get closer to the deadline, don't be surprised to see them make a real push for Gavrikov. He would be a great fit for their top-four, but alas, time will tell if these two clubs end up making a deal from here.