Washington Capitals 1st place NHL insider Pierre LeBrun shared a trade update on Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Ivan Provorov in the latest edition of Early Trading on TSN [https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/video/early-trading-canucks-identify-trade-needs%7e3048904]. Given the Blue Jackets' current position in the standings and Provorov's expiring contract, it seems logical for the team to consider moving him to gain valuable draft capital. However, LeBrun suggests that may not be the case. Provorov reportedly loves it in Columbus. Which could indicate that he might stay with the team despite the team's current rebuild. LeBrun had this to say on the Provorov development. “One of the things that Mark Gandler, the agent, said to me today is that Ivan Provorov loves it in Columbus, and that they are absolutely open to discussions on an extension with the Columbus Blue Jackets if that’s something that the Blue Jackets would like to entertain…” LeBrun also touched on an interesting bit of news that happened this weekend, which could keep Ivan Provorov in Columbus—his younger brother, Vladimir, recently committed to Ohio State to play hockey. Here’s the twist: Vladimir is only 16, meaning he’s at least two years away from suiting up for Ohio State. Could that be the reason Ivan wants to stick around long-term with the Blue Jackets? LeBrun noted that both Provorov and his family love Columbus, and he’d be open to staying. At 27, Provorov is in the final year of his contract, and if the Blue Jackets and his camp can bridge the gap on a deal, a long-term extension might be in the cards. LeBrun also noted the potential challenge—what Columbus is willing to offer versus what Provorov could go for on the open market. With the March 7 NHL Trade Deadline looming, this will be an interesting storyline to watch unfold. What do you think? Please share your thoughts on our forum. [https://thehockeynews.rtb.io/NHLCBJ/posts]
