One player on each NHL team that should be traded

This one is pretty obvious. It’s no secret that Jack Johnson wants out of Columbus and that Columbus would be wise to move him. The problem for both parties is value. Johnson fancies himself to be a top-4 defenseman. The numbers tell a different story.

In reality, Johnson is fringe fourth defenseman. If he’s put in a situation where he can succeed, he can be an impactful fourth defenseman. But if he wants a bigger role in order to increase his market value, he’s going to be severely disappointed.

Of course, Johnson’s attitude should be of no concern when it comes to moving him. He doesn’t have a no-movement clause of any sort, so they are free to trade him to any team of their choosing. He would be their unhappy problem at that point.

But what is Johnson worth?

Front offices around the league look at the numbers. They see a guy who has always been a negative possession player and can’t play a top-2 role. They won’t overpay for a potential unrestricted free agent who may cause locker room issues if he’s still unhappy with his role on a new team.

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That said, the Blue Jackets should not sell him off for nothing. Yes, they’ll lose him for nothing in the offseason, but this is a team competing for a playoff spot. If the return isn’t going to solidify their position, they’re better off keeping him. After all, as unhappy as he may be, he’s unlikely to mail it in during the playoffs.