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The Columbus Blue Jackets might have one of the most obvious trade targets in the entire NHL before Friday's deadline.
Nick Foligno and the Blue Jackets are the perfect fit.
The Athletic's Aaron Portzline predicts that the Blue Jackets will actually complete a deal for Foligno from the Chicago Blackhawks before the deadline comes to pass at 3 p.m. ET on Friday.
"Foligno was the Blue Jackets’ captain during the greatest run of play in franchise history, including four straight playoff berths (2017-20)," Portzline writes. "He has spoken openly about his love of Columbus and has built his retirement home there. The Blue Jackets don’t have a lineup spot for Foligno, but there’s always room for a leader like him in the room. The 38-year-old is a pending UFA and most expect this to be his final season. It would be a memorable swan song if Foligno gets a second tour in Columbus."
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The Blackhawks have absolutely zero reason to keep Foligno with him being on an expiring contract.
There really isn't another team that would make as much sense as a fit for him than Columbus, either.
Originally a first-round pick by Ottawa all the way back in 2006, Foligno has played for the Senators, Blue Jackets, Bruins, Maple Leafs and Blackhawks.
His time with Columbus included parts of nine seasons, and a total of 599 games, 142 goals and 192 assists.
It'd be cool if Foligno could add to that before his career ends.
This season with Chicago, Foligno has played 37 games and scored three goals with eight assists.
If anyone's hockey career is meant to end in Columbus, it might be his.
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