Buzz Grows Around Potential Home Run Move by Hughes and the Canadiens for Top Defenseman David Jiricek

PUBLICATION

L. Honein
November 15, 2024 (5:28 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

We recently discussed young defenseman David Jiricek, and now TVA Sports has just published an article on the subject.

This is getting very interesting.

They have just published an article about Jiricek and the general manager of the Montreal Canadiens, Kent Hughes.

It's clear that this option is generating a lot of buzz in town.

David Jiricek: A Target for the Montreal Canadiens on the Trade Market?

As TVA Sports mentions, it could indeed be a home run.

Everything indicates that the relationship between Jiricek and the Blue Jackets has really deteriorated, especially over the past few weeks, which is very reminiscent of what happened between Yaroslav Askarov and the Nashville Predators a few months ago. Askarov was eventually traded to the San Jose Sharks.

«The situation between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the promising defenseman David Jiricek is becoming complicated, leading some to wonder if the almost-21-year-old might be traded less than three years after being selected 6th overall in the 2022 draft.»

- Ian Gauthier, TVA Sports

Jiricek, who was scratched from Columbus's lineup (and sent to the press box) for the last two games, has only played five games this season.

This is obviously not ideal for his development.

Moreover, the Jackets just added ANOTHER defenseman by claiming Dante Fabbro off waivers.

This says a lot about their intentions, given that they already had a crowded defense lineup.

Let's remember that Jiricek was drafted by Jarmo Kekalainen, who has since been replaced by Don Waddell (who has no connection to Jiricek).

«You can see that the player is starting to get frustrated, and the team, for its part, is trying to establish higher standards,» explained Elliotte Friedman.

«Usually, young players like this don't become available so soon after being chosen sixth overall,» he noted. «So, I guarantee there are people watching this closely, curious to see where it's heading.» - Elliotte Friedman

TVA Sports columnist mentions that acquiring Jiricek for the Montreal Canadiens could fit with the plan and would not harm them in the short term, especially because the young Blue Jackets defenseman is a right-hander.

After the Patrik Laine trade between Don Waddell and Kent Hughes, will we see a David Jiricek trade?

Jiricek, only 20 years old, is a right-shot defenseman standing 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 205 pounds. He was selected 6th overall pick in 2022 and recorded 30 points in 43 games in the AHL last season.