Cant score 5 on 5

Are Khodorenko and Blais in there to free up contract spots? Khodorenko wouldn't have much value to the Jackets, who have tons of young forwards with limited upside already. Blais looks like a salary and contract swap, but with retention that doesn't make a ton of sense for Columbus without getting another sensible piece in return (say, a 2024 4th or 5th?). Gus with 50% retained for a 2nd would be ideal.

I guarantee you...there is not 1 current member of the Bluejackets that will be able to help solve your 5 v 5 scoring problem.

He was in there as an extra to take on the Blais contract. It basically helps us acquire Gus for only 1.2 million. I’d be fine with a late round pick instead if they didn’t want the extra player. Blais is a contract we need to move or waive to open or more space for someone useful