We just received an interesting development regarding the 6th overall pick, David Jiricek, and it comes from the well-known David Pagnotta.

For the past few days, it was suspected that Jiricek might become available on the trade market, as he was first sent to the press box by the Blue Jackets and then assigned to the American Hockey League.

This situation is quite similar to the Yaroslav Askarov case before he was traded by the Nashville Predators.

In short, there’s an update. We can now say it’s official and confirmed!

It’s confirmed: David Jiricek is officially available on the trade market, and the Montreal Canadiens have a chance to acquire him

This is a big name hitting the market.

«The Blue Jackets are exploring the trade market for Jiricek.» – TFP

All the details are right here:

There are several reasons why Kent Hughes will very likely call Columbus about Jiricek and why the Canadiens have a chance.

First, the Habs’ management knows Jiricek very well.

Kent Hughes and his team did extensive research on Jiricek because he was one of the top players available in the 2022 NHL Draft (the draft where Montreal held the 1st overall pick).

Second, Kent Hughes and Don Waddell appear to have a good working relationship, as they notably completed the deal involving Patrik Laine and Jordan Harris together.

Third, and probably most importantly, the Canadiens have openly stated their desire to add a strong right-handed defenseman.

Jiricek is a 6-foot-4, 205-pound right-shot defenseman with significant potential.

He was selected 6th overall in 2022 and recorded 38 points in 55 games at just 18 years old in the AHL.

At 18, he was the second-best offensive player on his team (forwards and defensemen combined) in an AHL squad.

That’s very impressive.

Details will follow, but this will undoubtedly be a major storyline to watch on the trade market.