On the Columbus Blue Jackets …
Amir Basu: Elliotte Friedman on his 31 Thoughts Podcast on the Blue Jackets: “If I were Columbus, I’d go for it next year, I would just say we are all in. I’m keeping Panarin and Bobrovsky. Now I heard CBJ were in on Erik Karlsson, I don’t know if they are still in it. Someone suggested to me you could do a Panarin for Karlsson deal..”
Amir Basu: Friedman continued: “What’s Ottawa going to do with that? That makes no sense whatsoever unless you could flip him for more.”
On the Boston Bruins …
Joe Haggerty of NBC Sports: The Bruins haven’t been able to address their second-line winger need and could fill it internally. Ideally, they would be able to add an impactful goal scoring winger with a bit of size and grit. Trade options could be:
Jeff Skinner – Would have to give up something good to get him. Are the Hurricanes looking to package Skinner with Justin Faulk?
Artemi Panarin – Right-handed Panarin plays mostly on the left side, but could play right. Would have to expect the Bruins would have to include Torey Krug. Panarin would require a big extension as he’ll be a free agent after next season and there have been some rumors that he wants to play in New York.
Wayne Simmonds – A 30-year old a year away from free agency. Has some wear and tear on his body. He’s exactly the type of player the Bruins need.
Milan Lucic – The 30-year old carries a $6 million cap hit, but wouldn’t cost the Bruins much unless the Oilers retain salary or take on a bad contract. Could fit on the third-line if at $3-$4 million.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins – 25-year old can play wing and at center, if need be. He’s not really a sniper and is not a physical player.
Jason Zucker – The 26-year old isn’t as flashy as Skinner or Panarin, but he could just be hitting his stride.
