© Russell LaBounty-Imagn ImagesYesterday, we covered the possibility of the Columbus Blue Jackets targeting Mitch Marner or Brock Boeser. With approximately $40 million in cap space, Don Waddell will want to do something.
Today, Jason Newland and I will continue our summer series with more potential free agent targets for the Blue Jackets.
Target: Matt Duchene – C – 34 Years Old – 16 Yrs Experience
If the Blue Jackets brought Matt Duchene in this off-season, it would be a reunion. He was acquired from the Ottawa Senators back in 2018-19, where he played 23 games for the organization. Personally, I don't see this reunion happening based on Duchene wanting to win a Stanley Cup. However, if both sides have interest, then it could be a fit.
Stats
In 82 games with the Dallas Stars, Duchene scored 30 goals and 52 assists for 82 points. Over his career, he has played in 1,138 games and recorded 371 goals and 520 assists for 891 total points.
Previous Salary
Duchene is currently signed to a one-year deal worth $3 million, which he signed to try to win a Stanley Cup. If he doesn't re-sign with the Stars, he will likely try again to chase a Cup. When/if he hits the open market, experts predict that his next AAV could be in the $6 million range.
Realistic Chances of Signing With Columbus
As I mentioned before, the fit between Duchene and the Blue Jackets just isn’t there. He was already a member of the organization and left after they were eliminated from the playoffs in 2019.
Based on Duchene's last two deals with the Stars, it’s clear he wants to sign with a team that he feels has the best chance of winning the Cup. Unfortunately, the Blue Jackets just aren't there yet. They are going to push for a playoff spot, but likely won't be a Cup contender.
If he were to sign with the Blue Jackets, it would add another veteran to the organization—which could be good. The young players could use a bit more experience in the locker room. However, on the other side of the argument, they are at a point in their rebuild where they still need to allow the young, talented prospects to take the next step. If they’re going to make a splash this off-season, it shouldn't be for Duchene.
Let us know what you think below.
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