Blue Jackets GM makes Roster Move with Top Prospect David Jiricek Following Trade Rumors
PUBLICATION
Tom Banks
November 20, 2024 (1:58 PM)
Photo credit: Sportsnet
The Columbus Blue Jackets have seemingly no idea how to use their top prospect, and now he's been demoted to the AHL amidst recent speculation.
Now, those rumours have only intensified, with the team making the surprise move to send him back to the AHL's Cleveland Monsters, a move that has only sparked more speculation surrounding this team.
Must read on Hockey Trade Rumours
At just 20-years of age, Jiricek has played in 50 games at the NHL level over the past three seasons, but with the team having a blue line loaded with veteran talent, there's just no room for him in the current set up.
In six games played this season, Jiricek, who stands at 6-foot-4 has tallied just one assist, but after posting immense production at the AHL level, it's clear that he's ready for a longer leash at the NHL level.
After the move, General Manager Don Waddell commented on the situation, revealing that he believes playing on the blue line in the NHL is a very tough job, and he believed that giving Jiricek a bigger role in the AHL would be better for his development at this point in time.
Given Jiricek's trade value, it makes sense that opposing teams would be keeping a close eye on this situation, but for now, it appears as though he's very happy with the way Jiricek has developed, especially in the AHL.
With such a veteran group on the blue line in the NHL, Columbus don't have a way to find Jiricek consistent minutes right now, so if they can find a way to move the likes of
Ivan Provorov or
Damon Severson, it may finally open up a significant role for Jiricek.
Previously on Hockey Trade Rumours
POLL |
20 NOVEMBRE | 74 ANSWERS Blue Jackets GM makes Roster Move with Top Prospect David Jiricek Following Trade Rumors Will the Columbus Blue Jackets trade prospect David Jiricek at any point this season? |
Yes | 31 | 41.9 % |
No | 43 | 58.1 % |
List of polls |
Latest 10 stories