The wait is over.
Per multiple reports, the Columbus Blue Jackets have acquired All-Star center Matt Duchene in a trade with the Ottawa Senators. The trade was announced Friday morning.
Confirming Matt Duchene has been traded to Columbus. Details to come.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) February 22, 2019
In addition to Duchene, Ottawa is also sending defensemen Julius Bergman to Columbus, a prospect for the Senators.
Duchene and Julius Bergman heading to CBJ.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) February 22, 2019
In return, reports have indicated that Blue Jackets' forward prospects Vitaly Abramov and Jonathon Davidsson will be sent to Ottawa.
#CBJ have acquired Matt Duchene from Ottawa #Sens. Prospects Abramov and Davidsson part of the deal, but more coming from #CBJ
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) February 22, 2019
There is also word that at least one draft pick is also being sent back to the Senators from the Blue Jackets - dependent on Duchene's free agency decision this summer (He becomes a UFA at the end of this season).
I believe its a first rounder, Abramov and Davidsson for Duchene and Bergman plus a conditional first to OTT if Duchene signs in CBJ.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) February 22, 2019
The Blue Jackets have been lacking depth in the middle of the ice for years now, and this is certainly a helpful solution. In 50 games for the Ottawa Senators this season, Matt Duchene has 57 points on 27 goals and 31 assists.
Without a doubt, this is a sign that the Blue Jackets are pushing their chips in and going for a Stanley Cup run. Will it pay off? That's to be determined.
To top it all off, the Blue Jackets face off with the Senators tonight at Canadian Tire Centre at 7:00 PM.
