Rumours came out yesterday that Blue Jackets prospect Peter Quenneville could play next season in Finland in the SM-Liiga.

This rumour started when Quenneville’s agency 2112 Hockey posted on their website that he had signed a contract with a Finnish team.

Quenneville has not signed a contract with Columbus but even if he does make this move to the SM-Liiga, Columbus would still own his rights. Since Quenneville was drafted out of the USHL as opposed to the CHL the Blue Jackets own his rights until June 1, 2017. Even if Quenneville does sign with the Jackets, he still could go play in Finland. It would just be as a loan from the AHL, much like Oscar Dansk’s situation.

This will be the fourth team Quenneville has played for since he was drafted in 2013. He played his draft season for the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the USHL, before heading to Quinnipiac University the following year. Quenneville played five games at Quinnipiac before joining his brother John in Brandon to play for the Wheat Kings.

In two seasons in Brandon, Peter was very successful. He had 127 points in 116 games for the Wheat Kings. He was named the team captain last year and helped lead the Wheaties to the WHL final where they lost to Kelowna.

The SM-Liiga would be a great spot for not just Quenneville but for the Blue Jackets as well. Jarmo knows that league very well and would be able to keep a close eye on Quenneville’s development. For Peter it gives him a chance to play professional hockey and get more ice time than he would see in the AHL.

Overall I think this decision would be in the best interest of both parties.

You can follow me on twitter @PaulBerthelot

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