The Columbus Blue Jackets traded for Ivan Provorov on June 6, 2023.
I don't think anyone who follows the Columbus Blue Jackets expects Ivan Provorov to be on the roster after the trade deadline passes on March 7, 2025.
Provorov is in the final year of a 6-year, $40.5 million contract. The Jackets are only paying him $4,725,000 however, due to 30% being retained.
He enters the final year of his contract most likely knowing that he won't make it through the year in Columbus. The big question is how many games he plays because the rumors have already started swirling around the Russian defender.
Yesterday, Pierre LeBrun mentioned that due to Utah losing two of their defensemen to long-term injuries, they have begun calling around the league looking for help. Provorov should be in high demand, but when?
Columbus GM Don Waddell will most likely want to start a bidding war for the hardy defenseman, holding out until the last possible minute for the best deal. Sometimes that works, sometimes it doesn't. LeBrun also mentioned that the CBJ "Are not ready to deal him at this point."
We won't speculate as to what the return would be, but Utah has plenty of assets and prospects to make a deal work, and they want to be in the playoffs this season.
Don Waddell also has several other UFA's that could be dealt near the end of this season, so this could get really interesting.
What's Next - Columbus travels to Nashville to take on the Predators on Saturday.
Where do you think Provorov will end up? Please share your thoughts on our forum.