The Columbus Blue Jackets have activated Ryan Murray from injured reserve, moving Adam Clendening back to the minor leagues in the process. Murray hasn’t played since October 26th after breaking his hand in a game against the Philadelphia Flyers.
Not only does this give the Blue Jackets another capable defenseman to insert into the lineup, but Murray is a leading trade candidate this season as well. A deal was never going to be made while he was injured, meaning speculation can at least start to heat up again now that he’s back on the ice. In the time leading up to his broken hand, Columbus was reportedly shopping the former top pick, something that could continue now.
Selected 2nd overall in 2012, Murray’s career has been marred by injury and inconsistency so far, despite being a regular in the Blue Jackets lineup since the start of the 2013-14 season. A legitimate shutdown defenseman when he’s playing his best, contending teams may be interested in adding him this season if he can prove his health. Murray has another year remaining on his current contract which carries a $4.6MM cap hit.