Blue Jackets Should Consider Claiming Sprong Off Waivers

Yesterday, the Seattle Kraken placed forward Daniel Sprong on waivers.

The Columbus Blue Jackets should consider claiming him to bolster their secondary scoring.

Related: Blue Jackets Recall AHL's Leading Scorer

Sprong, 27, has proven himself as a reliable depth scorer over his nine-year NHL career. He has recorded 87 goals and 77 assists for 164 points.

His career high came in the 2022-23 season with the Kraken, when he tallied 46 points in 66 games.

Claiming Sprong would make sense for the Blue Jackets, as they've been hit hard by injuries to Sean Monahan, Yegor Chinakhov, and Justin Danforth.

While they have made roster moves, including calling up Luca Del Bel Belluz and Owen Sillinger from the Cleveland Monsters, they could benefit from adding another NHL-level scorer to complement their young core.

Related: Blue Jackets place forward on IR, recall another

Sprong is on a one-year deal worth $975,000, making him a cost-effective option. He could slot into the third line alongside Del Bel Belluz and Mathieu Olivier, forming a line capable of providing strong depth scoring as the team pushes through the season.

When the injured players return, Sprong could shift to the fourth line and play alongside Kevin Labanc, adding further versatility to the lineup.

Related: Columbus Blue Jackets (42 pts) vs. Seattle Kraken (37 pts) Game Preview

Claiming Sprong off waivers could mirror the Blue Jackets’ acquisition of Alex Nylander last season. Nylander thrived in Columbus, playing with renewed energy and contributing offensively. Sprong could follow a similar path if given an opportunity with the Blue Jackets.

What's Next - The Jackets are back home on Thursday to welcome in the Seattle Kraken.

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