Insider Says Both Merzlikins & Blue Jackets Ready To Part Ways

The Columbus Blue Jackets have gotten off to a poor start once again and changes must be made. It appears as though almost anybody could be on the table for a trade for the right price.

On 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Elliotte Friedman said " I've had a couple of people on Sunday say that they can see the possibility of that, that maybe both the Blue Jackets and (Elvis) Merzlikins feel that it's time or him to try somewhere else, but again, in the middle of the season that's not an easy number for a lot of teams to absorb."

There are just a few teams that could take on that salary, some that can by sending cap the other way, and even fewer contenders. It makes sense for the Blue Jackets to move on from Merzlikins while he is having a bounce-back season. He may not be worth how much he is making, but he is a good starting goalie that has had to deal with the weak and injured Columbus team in front of him for multiple seasons.

I would keep an eye on the Edmonton Oilers if Merzlikins were to be traded mid-season. They are desperate for goaltending and have a piece that can be moved back, Jack Campbell. This isn't ideal for the Blue Jackets, but they could easily buy him out and get good assets in return for Merzlikins and to take on Campbell. The Oilers are contenders sitting outside of the playoffs and need help in net immediately. Columbus should act soon.