Blue Jackets GM Waddell shifts deadline approach as team remains in playoff hunt
Don Waddell, Columbus Blue Jackets general manager, is reconsidering his trade deadline strategy as the team continues its unexpected push for a playoff spot.
“This is a different year as I’d probably look at it normally,” Waddell said Thursday, per NHL.com’s Mike Zeisberger. “Just because of what the guys have been through and how they continue to battle every day of the season and keep us in the position we’re in as of Feb. 27. And for me to trade players for mid-round picks, it doesn’t make sense.”
Columbus entered this season after finishing last in its division three times in the last four campaigns.
The Blue Jackets have also navigated an emotionally challenging season following the deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau in August.
Despite these challenges, Columbus currently holds the second wild-card position in the Eastern Conference. They’ve won their first three games following the 4 Nations Face-Off, including Thursday’s 5-2 victory over the Detroit Red Wings, who occupy the first wild-card spot.
The Blue Jackets now have a 28.2% chance of making the postseason for the first time since 2020, according to MoneyPuck.
“At the beginning of the season, I just hoped we’d have some kind of meaningful games in March,” Waddell said. “I didn’t realize we’d be in a playoff spot. And so now, the way I look at it, I don’t know if selling off is the right thing for this group. This group has done a great job of sticking together, and whether we can get there or not, I think I’ve got to give this group a chance.”
This shift in approach means top trade chip Ivan Provorov could stay in Columbus. He and the Blue Jackets reportedly have mutual interest in an extension.
Columbus has also persevered through lengthy injury absences from key players like captain Boone Jenner and Sean Monahan.
Waddell praised his staff and veteran players for establishing the team’s standards during this challenging season.
“The coaches have done a great job, but the leadership of this team has kept this group together all year,” the executive said, according to NHL.com’s Nicholas J. Cotsonika. “To me, that’s the most amazing thing. I kept waiting for the bubble to burst, and they’ve been persistent in their message with the guys.
“We’ve got some really good young players, but they need good leadership – and I think we’ve got great leadership.”
Columbus will face the Red Wings again in the Stadium Series on Saturday with a chance to overtake them in the standings.
