According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, restricted free agent Josh Anderson has requested a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The two sides have reportedly been $150,000 apart in negotiations over Anderson’s new contract. The 23-year-old winger scored 17 goals and 29 points in his first full season with the club last year, revitalizing the bottom-six and making Columbus a tough out all year.
Neither side would comment to Friedman.
What happens now? Does this spur a trade to Colorado? Do the Jackets get that center they need? Season starts on October 6. Clock’s ticking.
UPDATE: According to Friedman and Aaron Portzline, a trade request is news to Jarmo:
“No trade request,” Kekalainen said in a text exchange with The Athletic. “We are hoping (Anderson) will sign soon and continue playing in the National Hockey League.”