One of the many remarkable things about the very remarkable Seth Jones - Ryan Johansen trade is just how young the two players are.
Jones is just 21, while Johansen’s only 23. It’s plausible that the trade may be assessed for more than a decade.
More than a few people view it as a long-term win for the Blue Jackets, and maybe a lopsided one.
In other words, Columbus front office members aren’t being totally facetious when they say that the move wasn’t about the seemingly deteriorating relationship between Johansen and John Tortorella.
There are plenty of numbers that argue that Jones is already the kind of difference-maker the Blue Jackets sorely need on the blueline.
All those numbers in a visual format? Here’s Seth Jones’ HERO chart: pic.twitter.com/5AgnnTQfe1
— Alison (@AlisonL) January 7, 2016
But that age number - seriously, just 21 - is the most intriguing. Especially when you consider the fact that he’s been playing a supporting role behind Shea Weber and Roman Josi, possibly for the right amount of time to break through at a more natural pace.
Seth Jones got a call from David Poile earlier this evening. "I'm very excited. I want to take this opportunity and run with it." #CBJ
— Rob Mixer (@RobMixer) January 7, 2016
#CBJ D Seth Jones: "The D corps in Nashvlle is very talented. I learned so much, especially from Shea. They all deserved the minutes they...
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) January 7, 2016
"got. But I think I am ready for a larger role. I think I can deliver that right now. I’m very excited for the opportunity." #CBJ
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) January 7, 2016
The Blue Jackets certainly seem excited about acquiring him, and his fascinatingly high ceiling.
“Seth Jones is a big, skilled defenseman who has the potential to be an elite performer in this league for many years to come,” Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen said. “He has tremendous skill with the puck, sees the ice extremely well and has the ability to shut down the opposition as well. We believe he will be an anchor on the blueline for our team for many years to come.”
How do you think we’ll look back at this trade years from now, whether it be five, 10 ... or more?
Seth Jones has a while to go to match his dad in terms of trades.
— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) January 7, 2016
Popeye Jones was dealt 6 times during his NBA career.