3 Blue Jackets Who Could Be Traded Next After Laine Deal

The Columbus Blue Jackets are looking to get the franchise back on track as new GM Don Waddell won't accept losing season after losing season. Look for Waddell to continue making trades and upgrading his roster and it's financial flexibility after dealing Patrik Laine to the Montreal Canadiens.

Waddell is expected to remain active on the trade market throughout the 2024-25 season, here's who could be involved:

Elvis Merzlikins

The veteran netminder has three seasons left at $5.4 million, he owns a modified 10-team no-trade clause and he has a history of asking management to move him. While Yaroslav Askarov is currently dominating the goalie trade market, as talks continue in Nashville, Merzlikins talks will likely pick up throughout the season ahead of next season's trade deadline. One injury, and the market could heat up in a big way for contending teams. Merzlikins is hopeful he can enjoy a bounce-back season after going 13-17-8 last season, posting a .897 save percentage.

Boone Jenner

If Waddell wants to change the culture and make a significant impact on the Blue Jackets' roster, he'd consider moving Boone Jenner. The long-time Blue Jacket has two seasons left at $3.75 million AAV and holds an eight-team no-trade clause. Jenner would be a perfect third-line centre on a lot of Stanley Cup contending teams thanks to his in-your-face style of play. Last season he recorded 22 goals and 35 points in 58 games. 

Sean Kuraly

Speaking of veteran centres, 31-year-old Sean Kuraly is a pending unrestricted free-agent and is a prime trade candidate out of Columbus. Kuraly is owed $2.5 million against the cap in 2024-25, and owns a 10-team no-trade clause. Kuraly's a defensive-minded forward who can help out a bottom six. He has almost 60 games of Stanley Cup Playoff experience under his belt and look for Waddell to entertain trade offers next season as Kuraly isn't someone who will be in the team's long term plans.

Photo crdit:  David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports