According to Aaron Portzline it’s not as far-fetched as you would think.
I don't think it's as far-fetched as some would have you believe. https://t.co/6llWJMLt9p
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) February 28, 2017
Portzline has his finger on the beat of the Blue Jackets so there something to this. Is it likely the Jackets get Duchene probably not but with the Jackets not expected to do a whole lot lets have some fun and speculate what it would take to get Duchene.
Colorado is rumoured to want a young defencemen. Seth Jones and Zach Werenski are both non-starters, which would mean the Jackets would have to include either Ryan Murray or Markus Nutivaarra. Murray is the more likely option because of his high draft status and he is more established in the NHL. I also think there is an outside possibly Colorado takes a look at Jack Johnson as well. The Avs have a couple front office members who used to work for the Jackets and were a part of the deal that originally brought Johnson to Columbus. Perhaps they still like the player?
If Johnson is included instead of Murray the Jackets would obviously have to pay more in terms of picks and prospects. Pierre-Luc Dubois would be the only prospect that wouldn’t make sense to include, but anyone else should be fair game. I would look to include Gabriel Carlsson and Sonny Milano. That gives the Avalanche two former first round picks, both on the cusp of the NHL. I’d also be willing to include Oliver Bjorkstrand if Colorado wanted a player a little more established.
As for picks, a 2017 first is 100% in the deal. After that probably a 2018 2nd. That would force the Jackets to give up their 2017 second to Vancouver as part of the hiring of John Tortorella.
So here are a couple potential packages:
2017 1st, Jack Johnson, Gabriel Carlsson, Sonny Milano 2017 1st, 2018 2nd, Ryan Murray, Sonny Milano
Does either of those make sense for either team? Or is this just a classic homer overvaluation of the players you cover?
Have your say in the comments.
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