Blackhawks acquire Seth Jones in blockbuster NHL Draft trade

The Columbus Blue Jackets traded defenseman Seth Jones to the Chicago Blackhawks on NHL Draft night. Now he’s grabbing a big extension.

NHL Draft night produced fireworks on the trade block as the Blue Jackets dealt Seth Jones to the Blackhawks.

Chicago is getting Jones, the No. 32 overall pick and a sixth-rounder for 2022, according to Emily Kaplan of ESPN.

Columbus’ return reportedly includes defensive prospect Adam Boqvist, two first-round picks and a second-rounder from Chicago, per Kevin Weekes of ESPN. The first-rounders include this year’s No. 12 selection and next year’s pick.

Seth Jones contract

It’s an extra busy night for the Blackhawks and Jones as the two have come to an extension agreement. While it can’t be made official until next week, the extension is expected to entail eight years and $76 million.

The Blue Jackets traded Seth Jones to the Blackhawks

Jones will start his 9th season in the NHL in Chicago this coming season. He’s coming off a down year, but he’s still a defensive force expected to bounce back.

The Blackhawks are taking a gamble, giving up those assets and that contract to a player who wasn’t at his best last season. They’re making Jones the third-highest paid defenseman in the NHL behind Drew Doughty and Erik Karlsson.

However, the 26-year-old could be worth it if he gets back to his previous form as one of the best defensemen in the league. Determining winners and losers of the trade will have to wait until Jones shows what he has in the tank.

Jones’ brother Caleb happens to play for the Blackhawks, setting up a family reunion.

The Blue Jackets can put those draft picks to good use while hoping Boqvist can continue developing as a strong defensive prospect with good upside on the offensive end.