Columbus Blue Jackets Rumors: Gavrikov Linked to Contender

It has been reported that the Boston Bruins are aiming to add a left-shot defenseman to their group before the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline passes. Although they have their eyes on Arizona Coyotes star defenseman Jakob Chychrun, it now appears that Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov is also one of their primary trade targets.

Gavrikov is one of the top rental defensemen available heading into the deadline, so he naturally is receiving a ton of interest from contenders. This is understandable, as he is a top-four defenseman who plays a steady defensive game and can contribute offensively in the process. He would be an intriguing addition to Boston's left side and would have the potential to make it stronger as they head closer to the postseason.

Alas, it will be intriguing to see if Boston's interest in Gavrikov leads to them winning the sweepstakes from here. However, it is apparent that they have a lot of competition, as the Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Minnesota Wild, and Los Angeles Kings are only some of the clubs looking to acquire him.