Ivan Provorov’s Agent Shuts Down Trade Rumors Amid Struggles in Columbus

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, Ivan Provorov of the Columbus Blue Jackets has found his name at the center of speculation. A pending unrestricted free agent on a struggling team, the 28-year-old defenseman would seemingly be a prime trade candidate. However, Provorov’s agent, Mark Gandler, firmly dismissed the idea that his client is looking for a move.

Provorov’s Commitment to Columbus

Speaking with The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun, Gandler emphasized Provorov’s satisfaction with his current situation: “Ivan is happy to be in Columbus, happy to play there. He thinks that the team is going to go places. It’s clear that the team is better than it was last year.”

Gandler also praised Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell, expressing confidence in his leadership: “Personally, I have all the confidence in the world in Don Waddell’s ability. He’s an experienced manager who knows what he’s doing. I think the team is going to improve every year.”

When asked if Provorov would consider an extension, Gandler’s response was definitive: “Absolutely.”

Provorov’s Performance and Career Journey

Provorov joined the Blue Jackets in June 2023 as part of a three-team trade, after spending seven seasons with the Philadelphia Flyers, who drafted him 7th overall in 2015. In his first season with Columbus, Provorov tallied 32 points across 82 games. This year, he has contributed 11 points in 31 games while maintaining his reputation as a reliable two-way defenseman.

The defenseman himself has expressed his appreciation for Columbus, telling The Athletic’s Aaron Portzline:

“From the day I got to Columbus, I’ve enjoyed my time here. I like the city. I love the organization and the boys in the room. For me, I feel great here. But, obviously, a lot of times it’s out of your hands. So, I’m just focused on playing and doing the best I can to help the team win.”

Adding a personal connection to the city, Provorov’s younger brother, Vladimir, recently committed to Ohio State, further rooting the Provorov family in Columbus.

Blue Jackets’ Current Struggles

Despite Provorov’s optimism, the Blue Jackets are facing significant challenges. After a promising start that saw them reach 11-9-3 and flirt with playoff contention, Columbus has hit a rough patch. Losing seven of their last eight games, the team now sits at 12-14-5, ranking last in the Metropolitan Division.

A combination of inconsistent goaltending and poor team play has contributed to the slump. While Jet Greaves, a young goaltender, has stepped in admirably, he hasn’t been able to stop the team’s slide.

Trade Deadline Outlook

With the March 7 trade deadline looming, it’s unclear whether Provorov will stay or go. While his agent and Provorov himself have made it clear that he wants to remain in Columbus, no discussions about an extension have taken place yet.

For the Blue Jackets, retaining Provorov could signal a commitment to building a stronger future with experienced players. On the other hand, moving him before the deadline could yield valuable assets for a team currently at the bottom of its division.

If Provorov’s preference holds, he may become a key piece of Columbus’s long-term plans, helping the team overcome its recent struggles and reestablish itself in the competitive Eastern Conference.