The Columbus Blue Jackets traded defenseman David Jiříček to the Minnesota Wild on November 30th.
Don Waddell's plan to rebuild the Columbus Blue Jackets is in full swing.
On the surface, it seems Waddell traded Jiříček to rid them of a disgruntled player. But he got a player and some draft capital for him, so trading a player who wasn't playing NHL minutes wasn't all that bad, even for a former #6 overall pick.
So, how are the Blue Jackets looking regarding future draft picks? Let's take a look.
2025 - 8 Total
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2026 - 10 Total
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2027 - 9 Total
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Will Don Waddell use these picks? Or will he use them as bait?
In the Summer of 2025, Don Waddell will have major money to spend. After the 24-25 season ends, he's going to have 15 unrestricted free agents across the organization. There will also be 9 restricted free agents, three of which include Dmitri Voronkov, Daniil Tarasov, and Jordan Harris.
The summer of 2025 will undoubtedly be the biggest free-agent period in the history of the franchise.
Will Don Waddell spend the max to build a championship-caliber roster?
What's Next - The Blue Jackets continue their five-game road trip as they visit the Calgary Flames on Tuesday.
What do you think? Please share your thoughts on our forum.