Blue Jackets' Trade Deadline Push

0:00Welcome to NHL News Today. Two minutes of updates that matter to NHL fans, hit subscribe and stay connected. NHL Trade Deadline Week is here, and the Columbus Blue Jackets are right in the mix. They face three big games before Friday's 3pm Eastern Cutoff, Monday against the New York Rangers, Tuesday versus the Nashville Predators, and Thursday with the Florida Panthers. General manager Don Woodell could face tough calls if they drop all three in regulation, but right now, the team is pushing hard for a playoff spot, trailing the Bruins by five points with a game in hand. The Blue Jackets looks set to hold on to their pending unrestricted free agents through the Deadline, including Charlie Coil, Mason Marchment, Boom, Jenner, and Eric Goodbranson. Woodell has shown he's fine bridging deals like he did last year with Ivan Proverov. In 0 and 3 Skid might flip that script, but their recent moves, like adding Marchment and switching coaches, signal they're still all in on the postseason.

1:01Kit Johnson knows he needs to step up when he returns to the lineup. Coach Rick Bownes reviewed his goals from last season, and wants more offensive spark from Johnson's line with Sean Monahan. Johnson agrees, saying he's focused on filling the score sheet and helping the team make a strong finish, no matter what. Expect the Blue Jackets to add a veteran forward without giving up top assets like first-round picks. Woodell prefers players with term remaining over short-term mentals. A bigger deal could happen if the right fit emerges, like someone with years left on their contract to boost both now and later, especially with Zach. Wersky is still chasing his first playoffs. Meanwhile, get ready for a busy week. Elvis Merzlikens should start Monday against the Rangers, who just got Igor Shestakin and Adam Fox back. Keep an eye on rumors flying fast, but the over-under on moves sits at half a trade lead, leaning toward picking up experience of front while everything else stays intact. A message from our sponsor supports today's story.

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