Blue Jackets secure key players, moving them off the trade block. GM Waddell rewards talent and signals playoff push.
According to reports from RG Media, the Columbus Blue Jackets are working towards extensions with multiple players. Which will take them off of the trade market.
James Murphy of RG Media has reported that the Bonne Jenner, Charlie Coyle and Mason Marchment are all trending towards an extension. Here's what he said:
“With the way the team has played since [Rick] Bowness got hired and where they are in the standings now, I’m hearing a lot less chatter around Coyle, Marchment, and Jenner. Regardless of whether they’re signed to extensions before the Olympic break ends, they’re off the trade market heading into the trade deadline. Waddell is just going to ride with them and add to the roster so they can make it into the playoffs.”
Later in the report, it was mentioned that the organization confirmed that the talks will start next week.
As mentioned, with how well the team has played under their new head coach, it makes sense to keep them. That said, these three players are their biggest trade chips. But it appears that GM Don Waddell is looking to reward his team by offering extensions to their UFA's.
The Blue Jackets sit just four points out of the last wild card spot, and four points behind the New York Islanders for third in the Metro Division. With six games remaining before the NHL trade deadline after the Olympic break ends, it'll be interesting to see if they also decide to add. Which would further prove that they believe this team and want to push for a playoff spot.
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