Next year

CBJs just not in the place to give up all that. 2 firsts, our 12th overall last year, and Marchenko are very valuable to us


Not that Hart and Provy wouldn’t be valuable, but we just aren’t in the spot to do that

Mateychuk is casually thrown into way too many trades. He's literally the reason why they were comfortable trading Gavrikov instead of re-signing him to a long term extension and people think he's just an add on to a Provorov or Chychrun trade.

I see so many deals offering like a 6x6 for x player in free agency here and I am like…so do you not understand why we couldn’t sign Gavy? It’s not because the money it was always the term. If your going to give a 6x6 to someone might as well give it to him. No what we need is that bridge to our developing LHDs for 2-3 years not rearrange the chairs on a ship

obviously this is quite early speculation and I want the best for the team and such but idk why so many Jackets fans think Mateychuk is just Jiricek 2. From watching highlights, reading descriptions, and just stat comparisons he just seems like a lefty Boqvist that's just more pass happy than shoot. If he develops a better defensive game, can see him being comparable to Werenski, a 2 way guy that still leans offensively. This team needs defense and needs it bad. But I always get some response like "look at Makar". And if you do look at him, you'll see him have an excellent pivot and step up game, running guys over whilst being an offensive threat. Something that you only see out of Blank, except he's nowhere near Makar level
Other guys in the pipeline like Svozil are also offensive leaning, and Ceulemans is just beginning his pro games but appears 2 way, so it's a damn good thing we have Jiricek coming.

Here's what Scott Wheeler has to say on him

"He’s already a plus-level skater, which helps him escape pressure with his feet, push up ice in control, trail in transition, walk the line, and steer opposing players into tough spots despite not being the biggest guy. He’s the definition — or close — of the modern defenseman.

Mateychuk pushes when he can and everything he does is done with poise and command. He plays a reliable and calculating game built around his mobility and sound decision-making. He defends at a high level and is strong over his 5-foot-11 frame. Plus he’s a July birthday so he’s got plenty of time to build on his strong foundation and develop his distinguishing qualities (namely his movement and control of the game).

He just always seems to be involved in all three zones. I see a clear top-four upside and there’s nothing in his game that gives me pause in saying that."