Blue Jackets Acquire Valeri Nichushkin from Avalanche for Draft – Hockey Writers – Columbus Blue Jackets

After a few hours of holding his pre-draft media availability, Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell returned to work. He was able to get a top 6 defender that the team wanted.

The Blue Jackets acquired winger Valeri Nichushkin from the Colorado Avalanche with three draft picks, including the 43rd overall pick this year, the third round of 2027 and the fifth round of 2028. The Blue Jackets picked up a total of $6.125 million over the remaining four years of his contract.

Nichushkin had a 12-team no-trade list. The Blue Jackets were not on that list so no change was necessary.

What Blue Jackets Do You Get at Nichushkin

The Blue Jackets have clearly identified a linebacker in the back nine as a need going into this offseason. Nichushkin fits that bill and improves the team on many levels.

Here’s what Waddell had to say about getting Nichushkin.

“Valeri is a great player, swings well, can score goals, win puck battles and doesn’t shy away from playing in tight spots. He is a down-to-earth player who competes at a high level and we are very excited to welcome him to the Blue Jackets family.”

Nichushkin spent the last seven seasons with the Avalanche. When he was available, he was a big part of their deep playoff run. He brings 91 games of NHL playing experience.

Nichushkin can score. He can play defense. He will be an asset in the execution of the sentence. He is willing to play hard minutes. He fits the type of profile that would lead a Rick Bowness type program. He is a strong 6-foot-4 and 210 pounds.

The Blue Jackets were able to keep their first round pick at No. 14 overall. Although they had to part with three picks in three different years, they are all on the latter list and could be acquired in future trades if necessary.

As for the cap hit, it will be a lower percentage as the cap continues to rise. With four more years of team control, Nichushkin will be able to help on both wings on multiple lines.

His concern is his availability and history of injuries. Once in, the impact is evident. But there was enough concern from Colorado and their desire to spend salary that led them to do the job.

What’s Next for Green Jackets

For the Blue Jackets, the NHL Draft is next. It is expected that other moves will happen. The question is how many and how big.

By acquiring Nichushkin, the Blue Jackets got help on the wing that they really needed. Knowing that they need to win now, they will continue to look for logical solutions given all the noise surrounding them with the Zach Werenski situation.

The 14th pick is available if the Blue Jackets get a strong return now help. But they may now use that option when they are on the clock.

The Blue Jackets’ roster improved Thursday without trading a current player. Let’s see what else Waddell has in store.