Kent Hughes has just had the opportunity to make another stunning move like the Kirby Dach trade

Last year, in his first draft, Hughes had shown his mettle by selecting young Juraj Slafkovsky with the first overall pick, before trading defenseman Alexander Romanov to acquire Kirby Dach via a transaction.

So far, the acquisition of Dach has been a resounding success, the former third overall pick from the Blackhawks having had an impressive breakthrough with 38 points, including 14 goals, in 58 games last season.

This year, Hughes might have the chance to replicate a similar move, as the young Swedish defenseman, Adam Boqvist, is rumored to be available from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Boqvist was acquired by the Blue Jackets in the trade that sent Seth Jones to Chicago two years ago.

Following the acquisition of Ivan Provorov and Damon Severson, the General Manager of the Jackets, Jarmo Kekalainen, would therefore be open to parting with Boqvist, provided he receives an interesting offer.

At 22 years old, Boqvist is a right-handed defenseman with enormous potential. However, he has been slowed down by injuries since his arrival in the NHL, still managing to collect 24 points (five goals) in 46 games last season.

Considering the success of the Kirby Dach trade, Hughes might therefore be tempted to sacrifice the Panthers' first-round pick and some other elements, in order to convince his counterpart from the Jackets to let go of Boqvist.

What do you think?

Credit : Rumeurs de transaction