NHL Trade Rumors: Blue Jackets Linked To 2 Forwards

Thursday, February 06, 2025

The Columbus Blue Jackets are exploring trade options to replace Kirill Marchenko, who will miss six to eight weeks with a broken jaw. 

Marchenko had been a big offensive contributor with 55 points in 53 games and a +31 rating, making his absence a huge challenge for a team clinging to the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. 

With the March 7 trade deadline approaching, general manager Don Waddell is looking at external options to keep Columbus in the playoff race. 

Reports from The Hockey News and BVM Sports indicate that the Blue Jackets have shown interest in Anaheim Ducks forward Ryan Strome and Philadelphia Flyers forward Scott Laughton as potential reinforcements. 

Laughton, 30, has been a frequent name in trade rumors, and with the Flyers looking to “go big game hunting,” he could be on the move.

With 10 goals and 15 assists in 52 games, he plays a responsible two-way game and could bolster Columbus’ middle-six while adding a physical presence. 

Strome, 32, has seven goals and 23 assists in 53 games and is capable of playing both center and wing. 

The Ducks are in rebuild mode and could be willing to move him for the right offer, especially given his manageable contract with two years remaining. “If the price is right, Columbus could be one of the more aggressive teams at the deadline,” The Hockey News reported.

Columbus has the assets to make a deal without sacrificing its future, thanks to a deep prospect pool and multiple draft picks. 

Some within the organization believe internal replacements could step up, but Waddell may not want to risk slipping in the standings without a proven scorer to fill Marchenko’s role.

Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

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