Revisiting the Seth Jones Trade to the Chicago Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks’ decision to acquire Seth Jones in a blockbuster trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets during the 2021 NHL Draft remains one of the most talked about trades in recent franchise history.

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The trade, combined with an eight-year, $76 million contract extension for Jones, was meant to signal Chicago’s intent to return to contention.

The results have been mixed, leaving fans and analysts questioning the long-term impact of the deal. In the trade, the Blackhawks received Seth Jones, the 32nd overall pick in 2021 (used to select Nolan Allan), and a sixth-round pick in 2022.

Jones, a former All-Star, was brought in to be a cornerstone defenseman for a team looking to compete immediately. Despite his heavy workload and flashes of offensive contribution, his play has not always lived up to the expectations set by his contract or the assets given up in the trade.

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In exchange, the Blue Jackets acquired defenseman Adam Boqvist, the 12th overall pick in 2021 (used to select Cole Sillinger), a second-round pick in 2021, and Chicago’s 2022 first-round pick (which became David Jiříček at No. 6 overall).

Since the Jones trade, they have had success with draft picks, the biggest being Connor Bedard. Which has helped push the organizations into the next phase of their rebuild.

Unfortunately, they didn’t have the most success with the three prospects in the deal. Sillinger made an immediate impact as a young forward. As for Boqvist and Jiříček, both aren’t with the organization.

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Boqvist was placed on unconditional waivers in the 2024 off-season and signed with the Florida Panthers. Jiříček was dealt to the Minnesota Wild in Nov. 2024 for Daemon Hunt as well as a 2025 conditional 1st round pick, 2027 2nd round pick, 2026 3rd round pick, and 2026 4th round pick.

Overall, the Blue Jackets moving on from Jones and his $76 million contract, was a smart move.

What’s Next – The Blue Jackets play the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday.

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