The middle of the Stanley Cup Final is unexpected territory for big trade news to emerge. Yet here we are with three teams converging to come up with an intriguing move.
So how did each team make out on the deal?
Let's get to grading the trade for each team.
Columbus Blue Jackets
Hey, one can understand what the Blue Jackets are trying to do here. This is a team that has been bad for a while, has a wealth of young players at its disposal, and wants to start elevating toward the playoff picture again. Yet at the same time, they are in no position to break the bank for a win-now type acquisition.
Ostensibly, Ivan Provorov fits exactly what the Blue Jackets need. He's 26 years old and under contract through 2024, meaning that he can help immediately. But is also young enough to theoretically re-sign and become a part of the team's bigger picture.
Provorov's best version of himself would be a big addition to Columbus. This is a defenseman who, at his optimal, is worthy of 15-20 goals and 40-50 points along with staunch defense.