The Chicago Blackhawks’ rebuilding phase has taken an intriguing turn, as veteran defenseman Seth Jones finds himself at the center of trade speculation.

NHL insider Darren Dreger reported on Thursday that teams across the NHL “are calling, and they’re asking about Seth Jones’ availability” ahead of the March 7 trade deadline.

According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, adding to that earlier report, the Blackhawks are open to moving Jones if they receive an exceptional offer and may even retain part of his $9.5 million annual cap hit to facilitate a deal.

“Teams are calling, and Chicago’s listening,” Pagnotta wrote referencing Dreger’s report. “According to separate sources, the Blackhawks are willing to move Jones–under the right circumstances, of course–and would also be open to retaining some of his contract.”

Pagnotta mentioned Jones’ full no-movement clause, revealing that “formal talks between the Blackhawks and Jones and his agent Pat Brisson about waiving his NMC and/or providing a list of teams he would accept a deal to have not yet occurred.”

That said, the insider reported that “sources suggest the player would also be open to a change of scenery for the right environment.”

Jones, who signed an eight-year, $76 million contract in 2021, has struggled this season, tallying just 16 points in 29 games while posting a minus-11 plus/minus.

Despite his struggles, Jones remains a top-four defenseman who averages 24:40 of ice time per game, ranking ninth in the NHL. It’s out of the question that Jones would provide a lot to any contending team willing to pay the price for his acquisition.

The Blackhawks, sitting at the bottom of the NHL standings with a 14-28-3 record and 31 points, appear to be willing to part ways with the former All-Star if the return aligns with their long-term rebuilding goals.