Umberger, Brassard, Prospal and Aucoin may be available
There’s a better possibility they’ll be sellers, even with the club — as of today — in the hunt.
The players most talked about will be the following:
R.J. Umberger: He’s got a large contract $4.6 million, through 2016-17, and a no-trade clause. That will make it difficult to move, especially with his limited offensive impact (5-5-10 in 29 games). Three years ago, he was considered captain material, but that’s no longer the case.
Derick Brassard: One year left on his contract at $3.2 million. If a club needs a No. 2 center and a boost on the power play, Brassard could fetch a OK return. He has not panned out as expected for a No. 6 overall pick, but some still believe he could thrive on a line with large wingers who go hard to the net and can finish.
Vinny Prospal: Reached a gentleman’s agreement with previous GM Scott Howson such that he’d play as long as he wanted, then join the front office in some capacity. It’s unclear if that agreement remains in place — it does not legally, of course — but Prospal does have a no-move clause in his contract. He’s the Blue Jackets’ leading scorer with nine goals. If a club wants a veteran player who can provide secondary scoring, perhaps they make a sweet offer.
Adrian Aucoin: A veteran defenseman. They always have draw at the deadline.
There may be others. Of course there will be others.
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