Insider Proposes Blockbuster Trade for Veteran Defenseman

3 days ago  /  NHL Trade Rumors  /  Read Time: 1 minute 17 seconds

With the NHL Trade Deadline just two weeks away, trade rumors are intensifying quickly. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has sparked speculation by suggesting that the Florida Panthers might orchestrate a blockbuster trade to acquire defenseman Seth Jones from the Chicago Blackhawks.While the Toronto Maple Leafs are at the heart of numerous rumors, with big names being tossed around, the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, could emerge as a major player in the trade market and make a significant move.On the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman mentions that the Panthers are potentially looking to make a big splash involving Chicago Blackhawks blueliner Seth Jones:Florida needs another defenseman, a right shot, they've been looking for a right shot all year, and I admit I haven't looked into the future of how all the pieces would fit, but from a pure hockey point of view I wonder if Florida tries to do it for Seth Jones.A blockbuster trade in the mix?Jones has not been shy about his want to go to a contender and has been constantly linked to the Maple Leafs. Seth Jones wants to be traded to a playoff contender. Will the Blackhawks grant the veteran defenseman's request?https://t.co/rtND291jTq— Chicago Tribune Sports (@ChicagoSports) February 24, 2025Moreover, with Matthew Tkachuk sidelined by a potentially season-altering injury, the Panthers are in a position where adding a player of Jones’ caliber could be a game-changer. While Uvis Balinskis and Niko Mikkola have held their own, Jones would undoubtedly elevate Florida’s blue line. Known as one of the league’s premier two-way defensemen, Jones is at a stage in his career where winning is the top priority—and the Panthers are built to do just that.This season, Jones has tallied six goals and 20 assists in 40 games with the Blackhawks. Over his career, spanning 837 games with Nashville, Columbus, and Chicago, he’s amassed 96 goals and 335 assists, showcasing his consistency and impact on both ends of the ice.What to expect next?Of course, acquiring a player like Jones wouldn’t come cheap. A potential deal could see a significant piece like Carter Verhaeghe heading to Chicago, along with a package of draft picks, including Florida’s 2026 first and second-rounders. But for a team pushing to repeat as Stanley Cup champions, the cost might be worth it.Image - Perry Nelson - Imagn ...

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