Just hours before the 2025 NHL Draft, the Columbus Blue Jackets and Colorado Avalanche came together and worked out a deal that sent Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood to Columbus.
Adding Coyle to the mix for the Blue Jackets is what they were missing down the middle. He will take on the role as the third-line center and will help make them deeper as a team. But the question is whether general manager Don Waddell is looking to flip Coyle at the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline.
Unless the Blue Jackets are competing for a top spot in the Metro Division, there is a very good chance that the organization looks to part with him in hopes of landing another trade package.
This is going to be a story that will be ever-changing. Columbus is expected to be a team that pushes for a wild card spot or even the third spot in the Metro, and if that happens, Waddell will likely look to keep him as their own rental. However, if they are too far out of the playoffs by the deadline, Waddell would be wise to part with Coyle, ship him to a contending team, and land a strong trade package.
At the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline, players like Coyle will be at a premium. He can play down the middle as well as on the right side. He has playoff experience and, at 33 years old, will want a run to chase another Stanley Cup. Because of that, Waddell should be able to at least get a roster player or high-end prospect and a draft pick or two. It wouldn't be overly shocking if he elected for picks in the 2026 NHL Draft because of how strong that class is projected to be.
Obviously, the hope is that the Blue Jackets are in a playoff spot and can keep Coyle to push for a long run in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But if that doesn't happen, then Waddell does have options for his newly acquired veteran center.
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