Blue Jackets Rumors: 2 Teams "Interested" In Ivan Provorov

The Columbus Blue Jackets' defenseman Ivan Provorov has become a focal point in recent NHL trade rumors, with both the Tampa Bay Lightning and Edmonton Oilers reportedly showing interest, according to David Pagnotta.

Provorov, who joined the Blue Jackets from the Philadelphia Flyers, has been a critical part of their defense, bringing a blend of skill and a significant financial commitment given his contract runs through the 2024-25 season with an annual average value (AAV) of $6.75 million.

His situation is particularly intriguing due to the lack of no-trade protection in his contract, which potentially opens the door to a wider array of trade possibilities​.

Boone Jenner finds the loose puck and sets up Ivan Provorov for a big tally, bringing Columbus within 1!#CBJ pic.twitter.com/n7SwJCwTnk

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) November 20, 2023

The 27-year-old has five goals, 26 total points, a -12 plus/minus rating, and 105 blocked shots across 57 games played this season.

As the Blue Jackets face a challenging season, sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, they appear to be in a selling mode ahead of the trade deadline.

The team, recognizing the need for a rebuild, seems open to trading not just pending unrestricted free agents but also key players like Provorov.

Ivan Provorov wires Roslovic's feed past Quick on the rush, Jackets lead by 2!#CBJ pic.twitter.com/RhQ9gIXJKW

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) February 26, 2024

This strategic shift aims to create space and improve the overall team dynamics, potentially offering more ice time and opportunities to other younger players​.

Over his eight-year career, Provorov has amassed 70 goals, 243 total points, a -40 plus/minus rating, and 1,140 blocked shots across 589 games played. Photo Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports