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A trade proposal suggests sending Boone Jenner to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are making strides to enhance their roster with more grit and physicality, and a trade pitch has emerged for acquiring Boone Jenner from the Columbus Blue Jackets.
This offseason, the Leafs have yet to bolster their forward lineup. However, the website PuckPedia recently introduced a tool named PuckGM that allows users to construct their own trade scenarios. One user has crafted a deal that would bring Jenner, the captain of the Blue Jackets, to Toronto.
Maple Leafs would acquire:
- Boone Jenner (with $1.9 million salary retained)
- Third-round pick in 2026 (from Pittsburgh)
Blue Jackets would receive:
This proposed trade could be monumental, as Toronto would relinquish a first-round pick, a second-round pick, a prospect, and Calle Jarnkrok, an NHL player, in return. While the Maple Leafs would receive a pick, the centerpiece of this deal is undoubtedly Boone Jenner.
Jenner is set to enter the second year
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As part of a four-year, $15 million contract, Jenner can significantly enhance the size and toughness of the Maple Leafs’ lineup. He is expected to take on the role of Toronto’s third-line center, which would allow Max Domi to transition back to the wing, improving the overall team dynamics.
In the previous season, Jenner scored 22 goals and provided 13 assists for a total of 35 points over 58 games.
On the flip side, the Blue Jackets would gain Jarnkrok, who could step in to fill Jenner’s position. Jarnkrok has two years remaining on his contract, which pays him $2.1 million annually. Last season, he registered 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points across 52 games.
Additionally, Nikita Grebenkin, drafted in 2022, signed his entry-level contract with Toronto in April. The Russian forward could make the jump to Columbus’ NHL roster this season and would serve as another asset in their rebuilding efforts.
Other NHL Teams Showing Interest in Jenner
Before the 2024 NHL trade deadline, Jenner was part of trade discussions; however, the Blue Jackets chose not to move their captain.
On February 16, Columbus President of Hockey Operations John Davidson mentioned that he fielded numerous inquiries about Jenner but did not wish to trade him.
Davidson also commented, “We get a lot of calls on Boone, but Boone’s not going anywhere, and Boone doesn’t want to go anywhere.”
Meanwhile, Jenner has expressed his desire to remain with the Blue Jackets, clearly stating he does not wish to be traded.
“I want our group to become a successful team, make the playoffs, and regain our relevance as a franchise,” Jenner shared with The Athletic. “I believe we have the potential to do it, and as we navigate through this phase, I want to be part of what we can achieve moving forward. There is still much work ahead, and I recognize the journey we have to embark on, but I truly believe we can reach our goals, and I want to contribute to that.”
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was selected 37th overall during the 2011 NHL draft by the Blue Jackets. Throughout his 11-year NHL career, he has played exclusively for Columbus, participating in 715 games where he achieved 192 goals and 172 assists, totaling 364 points.
Maple Leafs Prioritize Defense in Free Agency
Following their elimination in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, the Maple Leafs turned their attention to improving defense and goaltending during free agency.
Toronto offered an extension to goalie Joseph Woll and subsequently signed Anthony Stolarz to create a goaltending duo. In addition, the Maple Leafs bolstered their defensive lineup by signing defensemen Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
The Maple Leafs are set to kick off their 2024-25 NHL season on October 9, facing off against the Montreal Canadiens on the road.
Cole Shelton covers the NHL for Heavy.com. He has been reporting on professional and college sports since 2016, with contributions to BJ Penn, USA Today, SB Nation, Rotowire, Canadian Baseball Network, and more. More about Cole Shelton
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Trade Proposal: Boone Jenner to Boost Toronto Maple Leafs’ Grit and Size
The Toronto Maple Leafs are in a crucial phase of their season, aiming to solidify their roster for a deep playoff run. With a talented but sometimes soft lineup, the addition of a player like Boone Jenner could provide the grit and size the team desperately needs. This article delves into the potential benefits of acquiring Boone Jenner and explores how he could elevate the Maple Leafs’ competitiveness in the NHL.
Who is Boone Jenner?
Boone Jenner is a Canadian professional ice hockey player currently serving as the captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Known for his tenacity, leadership, and versatility, Jenner plays primarily as a center but can also fill in on the wing. Here are some key statistics that highlight his career:
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points | Penalty Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-2014 | 72 | 5 | 8 | 13 | 19 |
| 2020-2021 | 49 | 7 | 8 | 15 | 26 |
| 2022-2023 | 70 | 26 | 17 | 43 | 40 |
Why the Maple Leafs Need Boone Jenner
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been criticized for their lack of physicality and grit, which can be detrimental in playoff scenarios. Here are a few reasons why acquiring Boone Jenner could address these issues:
1. Adds Size and Strength
- Jenner stands at 6 feet 2 inches and weighs around 210 pounds, making him a formidable presence on the ice.
- His size allows him to win puck battles and create space for his teammates.
2. Leadership Qualities
- As the captain of the Blue Jackets, Jenner brings leadership experience, which can prove invaluable for a team with many young stars.
- His ability to rally the troops and maintain morale during challenging times can enhance team chemistry.
3. Versatility on the Roster
- Jenner can play multiple positions, offering coach Sheldon Keefe flexibility in line combinations.
- His ability to contribute on both special teams adds further value to the Maple Leafs’ lineup.
Statistical Impact of Boone Jenner
In the 2022-2023 NHL season, Boone Jenner demonstrated his ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a physical presence. Here’s how he compares to some key Maple Leafs players:
| Player | Goals | Assists | Points | Hits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boone Jenner | 26 | 17 | 43 | 150 |
| Auston Matthews | 40 | 30 | 70 | 40 |
| John Tavares | 30 | 25 | 55 | 35 |
As shown in the table above, Jenner’s physical play (150 hits) and scoring ability (43 points) can seamlessly complement the more finesse-oriented style of stars like Matthews and Tavares.
Potential Trade Scenarios
To acquire Boone Jenner, the Maple Leafs would need to consider their assets and how they can leverage them effectively. Here are a few potential trade scenarios:
1. Draft Picks and Prospects
- Toronto could offer a combination of their 2024 first-round draft pick and a promising prospect to entice Columbus.
2. Player Swap
- Trading a player like Alex Kerfoot, who has had a fluctuating role on the team, might provide the Blue Jackets with immediate help while clearing salary cap space for the Leafs.
3. Multiple Players for One
- Including a package of mid-tier players and draft picks could appeal to the Blue Jackets, who are still in a rebuilding phase.
Benefits of Adding Boone Jenner to the Lineup
The addition of Boone Jenner could serve multiple benefits for the Maple Leafs:
- Increased Physicality: His physical style of play can help the team stand up against tougher opponents.
- Enhanced Scoring Depth: Jenner’s scoring ability adds depth to the lineup, making the Maple Leafs more versatile in their attack.
- Improved Special Teams: His experience on the power play and penalty kill can elevate Toronto’s special teams performance.
- Team Chemistry: His leadership and work ethic can positively influence younger players, fostering a more competitive atmosphere.
First-Hand Experience from Players
Several players in the NHL have shared their views on Boone Jenner’s impact on a team. Here are a few noteworthy quotes:
“He’s the type of player every team needs. He battles hard, plays with heart, and can score when needed.” – Former teammate
“Jenner brings a unique blend of skill and grit that elevates the team’s overall performance.” – NHL analyst
Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Toronto
acquiring Boone Jenner could be a game-changer for the Toronto Maple Leafs. His combination of grit, leadership, and versatility would enhance the team’s chances of success in the playoffs. As the trade deadline approaches, the front office should seriously consider this move to bolster the roster and make a serious run for the Cup.
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