Report: Dubois preferred short-term deal, hoping for trade from Jackets

Despite inking a two-year contract on Thursday, it appears Pierre-Luc Dubois isn't happy with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The young forward, who was a restricted free agent, and his camp preferred a shorter pact this offseason to give general manager Jarmo Kekalainen time to potentially facilitate a trade, and because it means Dubois avoids being locked in with Columbus long term, according to The Athletic's Aaron Portzline.

The relationship between Dubois and the Blue Jackets changed during negotiations this offseason, sources told Portzline.

It was reported shortly before his $10-million deal was announced that Dubois could be looking for a change of scenery, but Kekalainen and agent Pat Brisson both declined to comment on the matter.

Columbus drafted Dubois third overall in 2016, and he's the club's most promising young forward. The 22-year-old registered a team-leading 49 points in 70 games last season before adding 10 points in 10 playoff games.

The Blue Jackets are set to open training camp Jan. 3, and they'll kick off their 2021 season Jan. 14 versus the Nashville Predators.

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