Now that the 2025 NHL Draft is over and the Columbus Blue Jackets tried to make a big splash landing Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders, GM Don Waddell's attention turns to trying to add to the blue line.
Right now, it seems that pending free agents Ivan Provorov and Dante Fabbro will be headed to market. He will need to pivot to other available defensemen, whether that be on the open market or via trade.
Two names that stand out are Rasmus Andersson of the Calgary Flames and Aaron Ekblad of the Florida Panthers. Both would be able to fit in the role that they wanted Dobson to take. Unfortunately, Dobson was a younger, right-handed defenseman who could play on a pairing with Zach Werenski. But although they are older, so can Andersson and Ekblad.
Andersson is a 28-year-old who plays the right side and is signed for another year. Last season, he had 11 goals and 20 assists for 31 points. He can play physical and would be a good fit alongside Werenski, who is far more offensive. At this time, there is no real word on what the asking price would be for him. However, the Blue Jackets do have assets that they could part with to make the deal happen.
As for Ekblad, he is a 29-year-old right-handed shot that would most likely be the closest thing to a perfect fit alongside Werenski. He plays extremely physical, isn't afraid to clear the crease, and can contribute on the score sheet. This season, he had three goals and 30 assists for 33 points. His experience with his now two Stanley Cups would help the Blue Jackets, plus they wouldn't need to sell off assets to get him. They can push to sign him once free agency opens and save themselves some young roster players.
Yes, the Blue Jackets missed out on Dobson, but it isn't the end of the world. They just will need to turn their attention to other options, which is what Waddell has likely already done.
