Columbus Blue Jackets and Anaheim Ducks logos with the words Strome Rumors below the logos
Columbus Blue Jackets rumors suggest they could target Ducks forward Ryan Strome to replace Kirill Marchenko.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have emerged as a surprising playoff contender this season, currently holding the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference with a 26-20-7 record. However, their postseason push took a hit with the loss of Kirill Marchenko, who is sidelined indefinitely with a broken jaw. Marchenko was having a stellar campaign, racking up 55 points in 53 games while maintaining an exceptional plus/minus rating of +31.

With Marchenko out for the foreseeable future, the Blue Jackets are expected to be active in the trade market leading up to the deadline. According to Spencer Lazary of The Hockey News, Columbus could be targeting Anaheim Ducks forward Ryan Strome as a potential solution.

Ryan Strome: A Viable Trade Target for Columbus?

Strome, 32, is in his third season with the Ducks and has produced 30 points so far. While his numbers may not jump off the page, his experience, versatility, and ability to play center or wing make him a valuable asset for a Blue Jackets team looking to sustain its playoff push.

The Ducks are in full rebuild mode and are reportedly open to moving Strome for the right offer. He carries a reasonable cap hit with two more years remaining on his contract, making him a manageable addition for a team like Columbus that needs immediate reinforcements.

A trade for Strome could happen as the Blue Jackets have assets to make a deal work. With a deep prospect pool and multiple draft picks at their disposal, general manager Don Waddell could find a way to acquire Strome without sacrificing too much of the team’s future.

Will Columbus Pull the Trigger on a Trade?

While Strome may not be a game-breaking acquisition, he would provide a steady veteran presence and secondary scoring that the Blue Jackets desperately need in Marchenko’s absence. Given the team’s unexpected success this season, management has a tough decision to make—should they go all-in and bolster their roster or stand pat and risk missing the playoffs?

If the price is right, Columbus could be one of the more aggressive teams at the deadline, and Strome’s name is one to watch closely in the coming weeks.

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