Vladislav Gavrikov has been in the NHL rumors mill since the Columbus Blue Jackets stumbled out of the gates at the start of the NHL season.
Teams started calling GM Jarmo Kekäläinen in the fall about Gavrikov’s availability and the asking price for the pending UFA. It appears the asking price is quite high and that is why he has not been traded so far.
Will Vladislav Gavrikov be traded at the NHL trade deadline?
The Edmonton Oilers, LA Kings, Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs have all been linked to a Gavrikov trade.
NHL Insider Chris Johnston was on TSN’s Insider Trading and stated there will be some sticker shock on the price for Vladislav Gavrikov and the Columbus Blue Jackets are not budging on the asking price.
Johnston went on to say in his TV hit that Blue Jackets management would like 3 draft picks: 1st, 3rd and a 4th round pick. Along with the ask, Gavrikov has stated he wants to test free agency this summer and has no interest in signing an extension if a team were to make a trade for him.
What are fans saying about a Vladislav Gavrikov trade?
Gavrikov doesn’t want to stay in Columbus. I get that they’re trying to capitalize on whatever value he has, but he’s not that good. He’s a 3rd pair defender on a serious contender. Why pay that price for a rental?
If Boston gets him, will anyone score on that defense?
Guess he’ll just be a Blue Jacket for a couple more months and then walk for nothing in free agency.
