Team: 2022-23 Columbus Blue Jackets

Initial Creation Date: Aug. 30, 2022

Published: Aug. 31, 2022

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

Toews fulfills a need for this team that Kane doesn't provide. On paper he looks washed, but analytically looked really sound. Was complete garbage on the PP, but could find success with Gaudreau and Laine at 5v5. If Toews isn't an option, they should take a look at O'Reilly if the tides turn that way if an extension isn't happening. But, chances are if it comes down to him or Tarasenko, looks like Tarasenko would be out. O'Reilly would provide much more value defensively, but likely at a higher cost. The Jackets can probably afford to take on an upcoming C UFA without having to give up a C prospect, and mainly for that reason. Sillinger and Johnson are still ways away from being impactful top 6 centermen and they still have Roslovic (who could be used in a trade if needed), so a win-now attitude in respect to this trade could be worthwhile. Even if a trade for either player ends up being purely a rental, I still think the value given up (at least in the Toews proposal, haven't really thought up a proposal for O'Reilly) is forgiveable.

Chychrun is still a target for this team. Love Gavrikov, but his future on this team is uncertain. Andrew Peeke, like Roslovic, could also be added in a trade somewhere with Jiricek probably only a year out.

Subban may be a little controversial. He's still good. Do I love him as a top pairing partner for Werenski? Not particularly, but I think he's a better option than Boqvist, Peeke or Gudbranson. He wasn't worth his previous contract, but In wouldn't be surprised to see him sign a similar contract to what Kessel did.

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