According to Elliotte Friedman, the St. Louis Blues, Florida Panthers, Los Angeles Kings, Anaheim Ducks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and New York Rangers are the latest teams who have been pursuing Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun.
Chychrun is the biggest name on the trading block right now, so it makes sense that so many teams are currently aiming to acquire him. In fact, it seems far likelier that more teams will join in on the sweepstakes than drop out. Furthermore, five out of these six teams are making pushes for the playoffs – while the Blue Jackets aren’t looking like they will get in. Yet, Chychrun is more than just a rental, as he would be a long-term investment given his contract.
Friedman also noted that the Coyotes are leaning toward trading Chychrun to an Eastern Conference team. However, if any of the Western Conference teams send Arizona an offer they can’t refuse, we likely will see them change their minds.
Chychrun is having a down season, however. Therefore, Arizona’s asking price does come with a bit more risk than it would have just last season. In 27 games this season, he has two goals, eight points, and a minus-28 rating, Yet, when remembering that he just had 18 goals and 41 points in 56 games last year, he easily should be bounce back. Perhaps playing on a rebuilding roster is impacting him negatively.
Alas, these are reportedly the six teams in on Chychrun for now. Let’s see who else joins in the fun, shall we?
Photo Credit: © Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
