Columbus Blue Jackets defenceman Jack Johnson could be wearing a different team’s jersey before the NHL’s February 26 trade deadline. The Jackets sit comfortably in a playoff position but Johnson reportedly made it clear that he wants out of Columbus.

The Blue Jackets’ website posted an interview with the defender which stated that he’s been “holding a lot of things for years,” and that he wants to do what’s best for his family.

The following is an excerpt from NHL.com:

"It's never good to let things fester, hold everything in," Johnson told the Blue Jackets website. "I've been holding a lot of things in for many years here. Yeah, it's out. I own it, and I have nothing to hide. That's the situation. Like I said before, you're just trying to do what's best for your family ... I think any husband or father can relate to that."

Johnson could be seeking a fresh start after experiencing some financial difficulties in recent years. The 31-year-old went through a bankruptcy proceeding in 2014 after his parents were accused of mismanaging his funds. Much of his salary was lost in the settlement.

Head coach John Totorella also touched on Johnson’s current situation with the Jackets.

The following is an excerpt from NHL.com:

 "He didn't come out and say, 'I want to be traded,'" Tortorella said, describing the one-on-one meeting with Johnson before the Blue Jackets played the Vancouver Canucks on Jan. 12. "It was just, 'I think some stuff's probably going to start coming out along the way [to the NHL Trade Deadline]. I want to talk to you face-to-face. I love it here. I want to improve as a player. I want it to work here, but I also have to think about my family.' I don't blame him for that. I don't … and I really respect him for his honesty."

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Johnson’s role with Columbus isn’t as prominent as it has been in recent years, but he’s still a coveted defenceman that team’s should have interest in. He is currently ranked 20th on TSN’s trade bait list and should see his name heat up closer to the deadline.

(H/T NHL)​