Vladislav Gavrikov to the Boston Bruins? 3 possible deals that could get it done

Vladislav Gavrikov rumors have been heating up over the last few days. Multiple reports around the league have suggested the Boston Bruins are the most likely destination for the Columbus Blue Jackets blue-liner.

With the NHL trade deadline looming, the Bruins have the opportunity to really clear up some cap space by acquiring Gavrikov and setting up another potential move.

As for the Blue Jackets, it all comes down to getting something you’re guaranteed to lose. With Gavrikov’s contract expiring at the end of the season, and the likelihood of him not returning, the Jackets will be looking to maximize their assets in the future.

Let’s take a look at three possible trades for Vladislav Gavrikov that could happen within the next 24 hours.

#1 Bruins acquire Gavrikov, Blue Jackets acquire Craig Smith and 2024 2nd-round pick

This is the most likely trade scenario. Both Gavrikov and Craig Smith are rumored to be major pieces in the deal if it happens between the two teams.

The Blue Jackets would likely want some draft capital along with Smith because Smith’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season. A second-round pick might be a little pricey, but the Blue Jackets shouldn’t demand less.

#2 Bruins acquire Gavrikov (50% cap retained), Blue Jackets acquire Connor Clifton, Marc McGlaughlin, 2024 6th-round pick (50% cap retained)

This is the “Blue Jackets building for the future” deal. With the addition of Vladislav Gavrikov, it would be optimal for the Bruins to send a defenseman back in the deal.

Connor Clifton is young enough to provide an upside to his acquisition by the Jackets. A prospect and a pick will also go a long way for the Jackets in this deal, and they might even weaponize the cap if it means getting back a few more pieces.

#3 Bruins acquire Gavrikov, Joonas Korpisalo, 2023 2nd-round pick; Blue Jackets acquire Linus Ullmark, Craig Smith, Goergi Meurkolov, 2024 4th-round pick, 2025 3rd-round pick

You wanna get nuts? Let’s get nuts. In the last week, Boston media has posed the idea of possibly getting rid of Linus Ullmark and riding or dying with Jeremy Swayman. Getting rid of Ullmark will also clear up substantial cap space to acquire another big piece.

Why not swap him out for a decent backup like Korpisalo, who's getting paid $4 million AAV less? Korpisalo has also shown a knack for shining in playoff performances. Clearing out Smith and Ullmark would give the Bruins almost $8 million in cap space.