Report: Blue Jackets, Blackhawks working on Seth Jones trade
The Columbus Blue Jackets and Chicago Blackhawks are working on a blockbuster deal that would send defenseman Seth Jones to the Windy City, sources told Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.
The two sides previously tried to hammer out a trade, with the Blue Jackets reportedly wanting Kirby Dach or Alex DeBrincat as the centerpiece coming their way. However, it wasn't a deal the Blackhawks were willing to make.
Chicago and Columbus are now reportedly working on a swap that would include a mix of the Blackhawks' other young players, prospects, and high draft picks.
Jones has one year remaining on his deal with a $5.4-million cap hit, so any team trading for him is likely looking to ensure he'd sign an extension afterward. Chicago is believed to be one of the teams that could secure a long-term commitment from the 26-year-old, Friedman added.
The Blackhawks project to have over $20 million in cap space this offseason. The trade that sent Duncan Keith to the Edmonton Oilers - helping clear cap room - brought in Seth's brother, Caleb, to Chicago.
Jones received down-ballot Norris Trophy votes in each season between 2017-20, finishing as high as fourth in 2018. However, he registered just five goals and 23 assists in 56 games this past season, and his underlying numbers plummeted.
Evolving-Hockey.comThe Blackhawks severely lack experience on the back end. Here's their current defensive depth chart:
| LD | RD |
|---|---|
| Calvin de Haan | Connor Murphy |
| Nikita Zadorov* | Adam Boqvist |
| Riley Stillman | Ian Mitchell |
| Caleb Jones |
*Restricted free agent
Jones reportedly told the Blue Jackets in May that he wouldn't sign an extension with the team.
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