Blue Jackets Report: Columbus GM - 'Everything is in Play' - NHL Trade Rumors

Don Waddell hasn't been on the job long in Columbus but if you think the new president and general manager of the Blue Jackets is going to sit on his hands with the offseason revving up to full gear, think again.

The @BlueJacketsNHL have signed Don Waddell to a multi-year contract. ✍️ pic.twitter.com/5hFbiD8z5K
— NHL (@NHL) May 28, 2024

Waddell recently met with the media, including Brian Hedger from Dispatch.com and confirmed for the right price, everything is on the table. This includes the #4 overall selection the Blue Jackets own, along with several of their roster players.

The Blue Jackets have been rebuilding for too long and there needs to be a change of direction this summer and that's why Waddell was brought in. From Elvis Merzlikins asking for a trade to the curious case of Patrik Laine, Waddell has a lot on his plater heading into the summer.

Columbus also has $23.7 million in cap space to work with so Waddell has some flexibility if he wants to acquire a proven NHL player with a decent price tag. There's also been some rumors that Johnny Gaudreau and his massive contract could be in play as well this summer as the changes could be substantial in Ohio this offseason.

Waddell isn't messing around as the Blue Jackets are a mess. It's time for major changes and a complete reset of their roster and their fan base could finally be getting their wish in a few weeks.