Boone Jenner has surfaced as a potential Leafs target after a recent update
Photo credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images
Columbus Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner has emerged as a potential trade target after a report revealed his pending contract status may cause a bidding war.
Currently in the midst of his 13th career season as a member of the Columbus Blue Jackets, captain Boone Jenner faces an uncertain offseason as he nears free agency.
And a new update out of Columbus let on that Jenner could become a hot commodity this trade deadline if they aren't able to re-sign him.
The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta appeared on the DFO Rundown on Wednesday and among his various reports from around the league, mentioned Jenner's current situation in Columbus.
He mentioned that the veteran forward has set a potential timeframe for an extension to be signed, with the Olympic break the deadline:
If there's no extension by...after the Olympics, or maybe even sooner; there are gonna be a lot of teams that are gonna line up to pluck [him] out of Columbus.
That gives Columbus roughly three months to either extend him or entertain a deal with potential bidders like the Toronto Maple Leafs.
How Boone Jenner fits the Maple Leafs' current needs
Jenner, 32, would be able to give Toronto both a physical and offensive presence while also providing more leadership in the locker room being a team captain.
He has missed time in recent seasons but has remained effective when healthy and had a stretch from 2021-2024 where he scored 20+ goals and averaged 109 hits while providing above average defense.
Adding versatility to the lineup, Jenner can play both center and wing and would provide Toronto yet another strong face-off option who has won a career 54.1% of them.
One other benefit is that Jenner's contract isn't necessarily the most expensive at only $3.75-million; Toronto would need to navigate their cap situation if they pursued him.
If the Maple Leafs intend to keep pace with the rest of the Atlantic Division, then a player like Boone Jenner could help stabilize an area Toronto has been trying to improve.
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