The Columbus Blue Jackets [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/columbus-blue-jackets] made a notable move this past week, as they acquired forward Conor Garland from the Vancouver Canucks [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/vancouver-canucks] in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick. This was after Garland was heavily linked to the Blue Jackets during trade deadline week. With the Blue Jackets in need of another impactful winger, it makes a lot of sense that they brought in Garland. This is because the Massachusetts native not only makes an impact offensively, but also plays a heart-and-soul game and works in all situations. With this, he should be an excellent addition to the Blue Jackets' roster as they push for a playoff spot. Another aspect of Garland's game that should make him a valuable pickup for the Blue Jackets is his versatility. This is because he is a player who can move up and down the lineup when needed and still make an impact. Garland is a player who should be around for a while, too, as his six-year, $36 million contract extension does not kick in until next season. This is undoubtedly a nice bonus for Columbus and makes the price they had to pay to acquire him certainly reasonable. Garland has also had a nice start to his Blue Jackets tenure, as he scored two goals for Columbus during their most recent matchup against the Los Angeles Kings. If he can keep this kind of play up, it would be huge for a Blue Jackets team looking to move up the Eastern Conference standings.
