Blue Jackets' Pierre-Luc Dubois on benching: 'I've got to step up my game'

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Pierre-Luc Dubois reportedly requested a trade before the 2020-21 NHL season began earlier this month. During Thursday's game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, his play made it seem like he truly wanted out of Columbus, which didn't sit well with Jackets head coach John Tortorella. 

After averaging 17 minutes per night through the team's first four games, Tortorella benched Dubois after playing just under four minutes against Tampa Bay. Tortorella didn't discuss why he benched Dubois after the game, but the disgruntled 22-year-old admitted on Friday that he needs to play better. 

"I hold myself to a high standard," Dubois said, according to Sean Leahy of NBC's Pro Hockey Talk. "I know what level I can play at. There's not a lot right now that I am satisfied with. I know I can take a step up in every aspect. Whenever the next game is, I've got to step up my game. I acknowledge that. I know it and I'm ready."

Dubois has just one goal in five games this year after tallying 49 points (18 goals, 31 assists) in 70 games last season. He signed a two-year, $10 million extension with Columbus just before training camp, but his trade request was made public soon after. 

It's unclear if the Blue Jackets will cater to Dubois' trade request. However, The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun reported Friday that he believes several teams have inquired about Dubois' availability. Many of the teams he mentions have some solid assets to offer Columbus in exchange for the talented forward.