Trade between the Canadiens and the Blue Jackets involving Juraj Slafkovsky: it has just been mentioned, and the Habs would acquire Kent Johnson
Let's not kid ourselves, Juraj Slafkovsky is taking some time to find his footing and establish himself in the NHL. It's important to note that it's not too late by any means, but for a first overall pick playing on the second line and on the power play, his production is clearly insufficient.
At just 19 years old, he has a bright future ahead of him, but fans are increasingly questioning whether he will become an impact player. On the Blue Jackets' side, young Kent Johnson has been sent to the American League, and he changed agents, possibly to request a trade.
At 21 years old, Johnson was the 5th overall pick in the 2021 draft. Coming from the NCAA, he has shown more talent than Slafkovsky, as evidenced by his 40 points in 79 games last season. However, it's difficult to predict the ceiling for both players.
Former NHL employee Rachel Doerrie proposed this trade between the two players:
"A team on the cusp of playoffs that is looking for an impact player could be a great fit for Kent Johnson. Definitely a few that come to mind. Or, maybe young player for young player swap? Slafkovsky+ for KJ?"
We know that Jarmo Kekalainen, the Jackets' general manager, is not afraid to make this kind of trade. He facilitated the trade between Pierre-Luc Dubois and Patrik Laine, and he also acquired Seth Jones from the Predators, only to later trade him to Chicago.
At the time of writing this, it's hard to determine which team would come out ahead. From what we've seen of Slafkovsky in camp, he's clearly promising, but the confidence is not quite there. Johnson, on the other hand, managed to tally 40 points at the age of 20.
Would you make this trade?
| POLL |
4 NOVEMBRE | 151 ANSWERS Trade between the Canadiens and the Blue Jackets involving Juraj Slafkovsky: it has just been mentioned, and the Habs would acquire Kent Johnson Do you think Juraj Slafkovsky will break through this season? |
| Yes | 61 | 40.4 % |
| No | 90 | 59.6 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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