Is that still 4 first round picks? I love the outside-the-box thinking on Jones, and even though it rarely happens, this would be a way to fix the defense. That said, is Jones really worth overspending for like that?

Ya, it would be 4 first's.

It would definitely be an over-payment, but after Friday, they will have 5 1st rd picks in the pipeline from the past two years, which helps lessen the blow a bit. If they went this route, they wouldn't have to give up younger guys for this upcoming season (Vatrano, Spooner) for a Shattenkirk, either. Leaves you a little light on the wings, as you wouldn't be able to spend money there to bring in a free agent, but having a chance to see Vatrano play a full season in a top 6 role probably isn't a bad thing.

I see. I'm all for something like this. Wish the NHL GMs didn't seem to have this under-the-table agreement with each other to stand clear of RFA's. I get you don't want people offer-sheeting your players, but it would really add another element to free agency if RFA's were actually a legit option (not via trading for).

Wouldn't you rather offersheet a guy like Lindholm though? I feel you wouldn't go wrong with either player. Unless you like Jones' style and fit more (being a right shot adds a lot more value to it).

It's up to the player to accept an offer sheet (they can use offers as a negotiation tool). Each team can only have one offer sheet out at a time that involve the same picks. There are 7 teams that can't offer an offersheet that involves a next year's 2nd. Half the teams can't really afford a high priced offer sheet.

I agree that there is an unspoken code around the league among GM's not to offer sheet. But Bruins are desperate, so ya never know.

If they offer sheet Jones, and CBJ matches it, is Jones required to stay in CBJ or can he make a choice?

he has no choice. He has to stay in CBJ.