Vladislav Gavrikov: Blue Jackets defenseman being held out for trade reasons.

Detroit Red Wings v Columbus Blue Jackets
Vladislav Gavrikov of the Columbus Blue Jackets has been benched due to "trade-related reasons" (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images)

Earlier on Tuesday, the Columbus Blue Jackets reported that defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov will be a healthy scratch against the New Jersey Devils. The tweet confirmed that he is being held out of the lineup for trade-related reasons.

Vladislav Gavrikov was drafted by the Blue Jackets in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Across 256 career games, Gavrikov has scored 73 points from 15 goals and 58 assists. The 27-year-old Russian has played 52 games this season, but has amassed just 10 points from three goals and seven assists in the 22 minutes he has been on the ice.

NHL Twitter reacted to the Blue Jackets' update and debated possible trade destinations for the defenseman.

"I think Gavrikov's a fine defensemen, but it goes without saying it all depends on the price. He's not in first-round pick or top prospect territory (no rental is), so we wait and see if it's Toronto" - Willyston Riellander
"I have a feeling that the #NHLJets are in on Gavrikov from #CBJ. They had interest back when they traded for Brenden Dillon. I don’t know if I like this for the Jets as it will probably cost a 1st+. He has a cheap contract now but will probably be asking for 5M+ on an extension." - Noah LaForte

Possible trade destinations for Vladislav Gavrikov

Vladislav Gavrikov would be a great addition to any team that is looking for a rotational defenseman. In his 52 games in the 2022-23 NHL season, he has registered 89 blocked shots and 56 hits.

Here's a look at the teams that might be interested in trading for Gavrikov.

#1. Arizona Coyotes

The Blue Jackets may trade Gavrikov and some assets to the Arizona Coyotes for Jakob Chychrun. Chychrun will be a huge upgrade in their defense and Gavrikov will likely come off the bench for the Coyotes.

#2. Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers have been pursuing Gavrikov for a long time but Gavrikov has stated that he does not want to stay in Canada long-term. It remains to be seen if he has a change of heart to join Connor McDavid in Edmonton.

#3. Toronto Maple Leafs

The Leafs might look to pick up Gavrikov and pair him with Mark Giordano. Rasmus Sandin will likely be involved in the package going the other way.

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Edited by Rajdeep Barman
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