Pavelski turns down serious contender

Joe Pavelski is one of the high-profile free agents out there and the veteran is focused on finding a contending club that he can sign with for three to four years. 

It was however reported by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman earlier this week that Pavelski has refused to meet with a couple of teams since the veteran forward does not consider them contenders. He instead met with the Dallas Stars and the Tampa Bay Lightning, and hasn’t ruled out a possible return to San Jose. 

However, one team that was serious about acquiring Pavelski on Monday was the Columbus Blue Jackets and team insider Aaron Portzline of The Athletic has revealed on Friday that Pavelski has politely refused to meet with them. 

While some could argue that the Blue Jackets have been serious contenders in the past seasons, it seems like it could be quite different next year. The club isn’t expected to get back free agents Sergei Bobrovsky, Artemi Panarin and Matt Duchene, which mean several voids will be left to be filled. 

That may be why Pavelski isn’t looking to join the Jackets, seeing that he would love to retire with at least one championship under his belt. 

The 34-year-old scored 38 goals and posted 64 points in 75 games this season. He was limited to 13 games during the playoffs due to injuries, including hand surgery and head trauma, but still managed to record four goals and nine points. 

Who will get to sign him?