The Columbus Blue Jackets have landed the first big fish on the trade market in acquiring center Matt Duchene from the Ottawa Senators. This is a big move for the Blue Jackets in the short-term and long-term if they can get Duchene signed to an extension this summer. While an extension is not part of the deal yet, the Blue Jackets received intel from the Duchene camp in recent days that Duchene will strongly consider resigning in Columbus that saw them decide to push forward to complete the deal.

Duchene is not a bona-fide No. 1 franchise type center by any means, but Columbus now has a formidable 1-2 punch down the middle and from a playing style, Duchene’s strengths of creating individual 1-on-1 offense off the cycle and has a dynamic ability to create offense down low in tight spots that will play right into the Blue Jackets offensive style very well. The Blue Jackets are all-in but this doesn’t completely close the door on them moving Artemi Panarin if a big-time offer comes their way.

Ottawa does well in receiving a 2019 first-round pick and prospect Vitali Abramov, who some scouts love, as the core pieces of the return for Duchene. TSN reports the Senators will also receive a second-first round pick (conditional 2020) if Duchene signs. Prospect Jonathan Davidsson also goes to Ottawa who’s regarded as a low to mid level prospect among evaluators.