Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman David Jiricek is embarking on a new chapter with the Minnesota Wild after being traded in exchange for 22-year-old defenseman Daemon Hunt and a bundle of draft picks. The Wild acquired Jiricek, along with a fifth-round selection in the 2025 NHL draft, in a deal that also involved various future draft picks going to the Blue Jackets.
Jiricek, a 21-year-old Czech defenseman, was the sixth pick in the 2022 NHL draft and possesses an impressive skill set, standing at 6-foot-4 with a right-handed shot and offensive capabilities. Despite his potential, he has only appeared in 53 NHL games since his debut in the 2022-23 season, as Columbus management believed he needed more development time in the AHL.
The Wild, who have started the season strong with a record of 15-4-4, saw an opportunity to bolster their defensive depth by acquiring Jiricek. By trading their 2025 first-round pick, they are hoping that their success on the ice will result in a lower draft position, making it less likely that they would miss out on a player with Jiricek’s potential.
In exchange for Jiricek, the Blue Jackets receive Daemon Hunt, a promising young defenseman, and a collection of future draft picks that will provide them with additional assets to enhance their roster in the future. Columbus General Manager Don Waddell expressed his excitement about adding Hunt to their organization while thanking Jiricek for his contributions and wishing him well in his new team.
Jiricek will now join the Iowa Wild in the AHL as he continues his development and looks to make an impact at the professional level. The trade represents a fresh start for the young defenseman and an opportunity for both teams to strengthen their respective rosters for the future.