The Columbus Blue Jackets have traded centre Jack Roslovic to the New York Rangers in exchange for a conditional 2026 fourth-round pick that could become a third if the Rangers reach the Stanley Cup Finals.
Jack Roslovic from CLB to NYR
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) March 8, 2024
Columbus Trades Jack Roslovic
With the Columbus Blue Jackets focusing on the future, the time was right to trade their 27-year-old centre Jack Roslovic. It will be a sad goodbye as Roslovic was born in Columbus, Ohio. But it also gives Roslovic the chance to join a team looking for the playoffs in the much nearer present.
Originally drafted in the first round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft by the Winnipeg Jets, Roslovic is in his eighth NHL season. He made his way to Columbus as part of the Patrik Laine – Pierre-Luc Dubois trade in 2021. His best offensive year came in 2021-22 when he scored 22 goals and 23 assists in 81 games. While not overly large at 6’1″ and 198 lbs., Roslovic is a speedy offensive centre with good vision. Even though his goal-scoring decreased in 2022-23, he turned into more of a playmaker. He had 44 points with 33 of those coming as assists that season. He hasn’t been the strongest in the faceoff circle over his career but he can chip in offensively, especially as a depth scoring option.
What This Means
With Columbus continuing their rebuild and Roslovic a UFA after this season, this trade made sense. The Blue Jackets get to recoup some assets in return for the hometown centre. And for Roslovic, he will go to a stronger team where he can focus on serving in a more complimentary role to provide offence.
The Rangersnare getting a smart offensive player who can provide depth scoring through their middle or bottom six. Roslovic might not be the player to carry the team on his back, but his offensive effectiveness can provide the depth that every team seeks come playoff time. As a UFA after this season, Roslovic’s effectiveness in his short end-of-season and potential playoff stint may determine his fate.
Main Photo Credit: Jeff Le-USA TODAY Sports
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