The Columbus Blue Jackets are facing some tough decisions as they head into the offseason. One of the items on their list is to evaluate their group of restricted free agents (RFAs). These players have their rights owned by the team, but they can potentially sign with other clubs through offer sheets.
The Blue Jackets have seven RFAs to consider:
– Yegor Chinakhov, 23, not eligible for arbitration
– Kirill Marchenko, 23, arbitration eligible
– Alexander Nylander, 26, arbitration eligible
– Cole Sillinger, 21, not eligible for arbitration
– Alexandre Texier, 24, arbitration eligible
– Kent Johnson, 21, not eligible for arbitration
– Jake Bean, 26, arbitration eligible
With new GM Don Waddell leading the way, the front office will need to assess the team’s current and future roster situation. While most teams tend to retain their RFAs, there are instances where players may not be qualified, allowing them to explore other options in free agency.
The Blue Jackets finished near the bottom of the NHL standings, and they have a significant number of contracts to address, especially among their forwards. With 15 forwards already under contract for next season, re-signing all RFAs may not be feasible.
It will be interesting to see if Waddell considers trading some of these players to consolidate the roster or if negotiations with the RFAs prove challenging. Former GM Jarmo Kekalainen was known for tough negotiations, and there is a possibility of offer sheets from other teams in the current salary cap landscape.
Players like Jake Bean and Alexander Nylander could be on the move, while promising talents like Cole Sillinger and Kent Johnson may be prime candidates for bridge deals. Chinakhov and Marchenko had strong performances last season, and their agents might look for short-term deals to capitalize on future salary cap increases.
As the NHL Draft approaches and free agency looms, the Blue Jackets will have their hands full with various tasks, including addressing their RFAs. While most players are expected to return, nothing is set in stone in the ever-evolving landscape of professional hockey.