Columbus began Friday’s NHL trade deadline activities by landing Vancouver winger Conor Garland in a deal completed shortly after midnight.
The Blue Jackets gave up a 2024 third-round draft selection and a second-round pick in 2028 to secure the 29-year-old forward, who had attracted attention from several Eastern Conference playoff hopefuls.
“Conor is a versatile player who brings great energy to the lineup every night,” Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell said. “He has tremendous character, plays a reliable two-way game and will be an important part of our club now and in the future.”
This season, Garland has recorded seven goals and 19 assists across 50 games for a total of 26 points. His contract runs through 2032 with an annual cap hit of $6 million starting in the 2026-27 season.
Columbus now sits just one point behind the Eastern Conference’s second wild-card playoff position after defeating defending champion Florida on Thursday night.
Following Thursday’s busy trading activity that saw Western Conference contenders Colorado, Dallas, Vegas and Minnesota all make deals, Garland represented one of the most sought-after players still available.
The New York Rangers may still deal center Vincent Trocheck before today’s 3 p.m. deadline. After defeating Toronto Thursday evening, they’ve already shipped Sam Carrick to Buffalo and could make additional moves.
Florida remains active in deadline discussions, sitting 10 points outside playoff contention with 20 games remaining. While goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky faces unrestricted free agency, depth player A.J. Greer appears more likely to be moved.
