Columbus Blue Jackets Should Send 2018 1st Round Pick to Vegas
The Vegas Golden Knights have said that they have deals with at least six teams already. The Columbus Blue Jackets are one of them. What are they giving the Knights?
Today is the biggest day in the offseason for the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Vegas Golden Knights and the CBJ have reported worked out a deal to protect young, emergin stars in Josh Anderson and Joonas Korpisalo.
Many reports say that the Jackets 2017 1st round pick and a prospect are going to Vegas in exchange for them staying away from the aforementioned players. None more notable than the Columbus Dispatch’s Aaron Portzline.
But SI’s Alex Prewitt has reported that the Golden Knights have draft picks acquired until 2020. Let’s hope the Jackets are one of them.
"According to Foley, discussions with teams about getting extra selections have ranged from this weekend’s entry draft in Chicago, all the way out to 2020. -Alex Prewitt"
2017 CBJ Draft Issues
The Columbus Blue Jackets are going to have to give up a pick to VGK. That’s not in doubt. But there is no guarantee that it will be the 2017 1st round pick.
The Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen is a big proponent of building through the entry draft. Jarmo is also one of the best at drafting in the last few seasons. The former scout understands the value of finding value throughout all seven rounds and values picks more than most GM’s.
Columbus has also already gave up their 2nd round pick this season to Vancouver. This of course was the final pick exchange for a coach under one of many dumbfounding rules of the NHL. John Tortorella of course was worth a 2nd round pick but if the Jackets trade away their 1st round pick, they won’t select a player until the 86th selection.
Related Story: Jacket's Send 2nd Round Pick to Vancouver
The Jackets could give up their 2018 1st round pick instead. Vegas is going to want to spread out their picks over the years. They also will likely get a better pick than the CBJ’s 24th pick next season, or at least around the same spot.
Plus many believe that next season’s draft is significantly better than this season’s. All of these factors point to the possibility that the Jackets could be shopping their 2018 1st round pick, not this year’s pick.