The Columbus Blue Jackets have some work to do this offseason. After a disappointing finish that left them on the outside of the playoff picture, the team needs to make some smart, aggressive moves to get back in the hunt. One area that should be at the top of their priority list? The right side of their blue line.

Adding a top-four, right-shot defenseman could be the key to helping this young squad take the next step. And if the Blue Jackets are looking at this summer's unrestricted free-agent class, one name stands out as a potential game-changer: John Carlson.

It was a shock to the hockey world when the Washington Capitals traded Carlson to the Anaheim Ducks at the deadline, ending his 17-year run in D.C. For so long, he seemed like a career Capital. But now that his time in Washington is over, there's a real chance he tests the open market on July 1 rather than re-signing with the Ducks.

Sure, Carlson is 36 years old. But don't let the age fool you—he's still producing at a high level. This past regular season, he put up 14 goals, 46 assists, and 60 points in 71 games, along with a plus-9 rating. Those are elite numbers for any defenseman, let alone one in his mid-30s. On a short-term deal, he could bring exactly the kind of offensive firepower the Blue Jackets need from the back end.

Imagine Carlson slotting into the second pairing. He'd instantly stabilize the defense and give the team another reliable option on the power play, where his ability to quarterback from the point remains a real weapon. Plus, he brings something that can't be taught: veteran leadership. Carlson has a Stanley Cup ring from 2018 and knows what it takes to win in big moments. For a Blue Jackets team hungry to get back to the playoffs, that kind of experience in the locker room could be invaluable.

If John Carlson hits the free-agent market, the Blue Jackets should absolutely have him on their radar. He's not the future—but he could be the missing piece for a team ready to win now.