Minor Random Thoughts

 A compilation of relatively minor random thought processes.

• Dean Evason deserves more consideration for the Jack Adams, full stop. When you consider the position he was put in and compare that to where the Jackets are right now, he at minimum needs to be a finalist.
  
  
• Given the recent rumors connecting CBJ to Elias Pettersson, it got me thinking about who potential untouchables could be. From the main roster, Werenski/Fantilli/Johnson/Marchenko are all likely off limits while the only prospect that I wouldn't touch is Mateychuk. I also doubt that CBJ is looking to trade off Voronkov or Lindstrom though I could see VAN coveting Lindstrom in a deal especially considering they are said to be looking for a C in return in any potential deal. Obviously remains to be seen but I imagine CBJ prefer to build a deal around Sillinger + 1st.
  
  
• Keep in mind also that CBJ has copious amounts of cap space so there is possibility to build a Pettersson deal into something larger. CBJ has been linked to Garland and Hoglander in the past and could also see a fit with Boeser while VAN has been linked to Provorov though it is unknown whether CBJ is interested in trading him at this point especially since he's formed a pretty solid 2nd pair with the up and coming Mateychuk.
  
  
• Also regarding Pettersson, I am sure Waddell is taking into consideration his place in the drama with him and JT Miller. While the feeling is that Miller is the one that is causing the issues, you cant ignore that Pettersson is also a big part in it also. Waddell, who had previous serious reported interest in him back when he was with CAR, must be completely sure that bringing in Pettersson wont mess with the positive vibes that have been built in the locker room.
  
  
• In other trade deadline related thoughts, the Jackets have overall made it very difficult for Waddell to be a seller despite having multiple pieces that he could sell off. As mentioned earlier, Provorov has proved to be a instant success alongside Mateychuk in bringing him up to NHL speed so I cant imagine Waddell would be thrilled to trade him despite his value. In fact, given his expressed desire, Waddell may even attempt to sign him.
  
  
• Lastly, with the Jackets in a playoff spot going into the second half of the season, a lot of talk surrounding the team has been how their performance affects the trade deadline plans. Provorov was already discussed and Aston-Reese was just resigned but what about everyone else?
  
  
• van Riemsdyk: Cant see a world where he's traded unless CBJ really falls off.
• Kuraly: He plays a small 4th line role but his game works well in playoffs and most likely wouldnt fetch much on the market anyways. With the Jackets loaded on mid round picks, I cant see them traded Kuraly unless they drastically fall off.
• Olivier: Speaking of guys who's style fit the playoffs, Olivier fits that bill perfectly. And even more so, as an enforcer on a very young team, I just can't see Waddell wanting to move on from him even if he's confident he could bring back to Columbus as a UFA. Fairly confident that not only will CBJ not trade him, they will actively attempt to get him under contract.
• Labanc: Inconsistency with his game has made his season a journey in and our of Coach Evason's doghouse. Despite that, it wouldnt surprise me if CBJ ultimately kept him as a depth option especially since he likely has minimal value.
• Danforth: Probably isnt as versatile as some would like him to be but he is a tenacious forechecker with good speed and his game would likely also translate fairly well in the playoffs should the team get there. Again, this is probably a case where unless CBJ really falls off, don't expect him to be traded.