The Columbus Blue Jackets defenceman Vladislav Gavrikov will be scratched from Tuesday's game against the New Jersey Devils for "trade-related reasons."
TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston reports there is no imminent deal involving Gavrikov and the belief is the Blue Jackets are protecting their asset while working through the process.
"It's hard waking up and (trying to) figure this out," Gavrikov told Aaron Portzline of the decision on Tuesday. "I try to not think about it. Try to be busy and do something, because it's gotta be in your head and the guys are wondering. There's not much I can say right now because I know literally nothing, but we'll see what's happening. Hopefully the guys can get two points for us tonight."