Columbus goes all-in with a rebuild

Team: 2020-21 Columbus Blue Jackets

Initial Creation Date: May 17, 2020

Published: May 17, 2020

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

Columbus are currently in no-mans land, with a roster that realistically isn't going to be contending and with very few high-end picks. That said, they have a solid foundation to build on, including a 21 year old No.1 C (i.e. Dubois) and a deep group of young defenseman, starting with Werenski (22).

Jones would be great to resign in 2022, but to do so you need to show him that this team can be set up to compete from 2022 onwards. Treading water until then isn't going to entice him to stay. Commiting to the rebuild/retool would show that they are serious about building a legit contender. If Jones doesn't want to be part of it then trade him for the best young players you can get.

In the short term I'd look to get the best possible (close to NHL ready) futures returns on pending UFA's, especially Josh Anderson, Murray, and Savard. They can probably squeeze a 1st for Savard, and like 2-3 2nd's and a couple of prospects for Anderson/Murray.

Committing to a rebuild would also leave plenty of capspace that can be weaponised to add more futures. The moves made in this AGM would give Columbus 12 picks in 2020, and 13 top-90 picks in the next two drafts. With good drafting they could be looking like one of the best up-and-coming young teams in the league by 2022/23.

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