On the Montreal Canadiens and New York Rangers …
HabsLinks: Bob McKenzie on his ‘Bobcast’ confirmed that there were trade talks between the Canadiens and Rangers. He mentioned Alex Galchenyuk and Andrew Shaw. As of yesterday nothing appeared imminent.
L.A. Lariviere: “This was discussed on #LavoieDube (TVA Sports) Monday, prior to #Habs – #Sens game. Miller, Kreider are possible fetches. Shaw not on outs”
On the Detroit Red Wings …
Craig Custance of The Athletic: The Red Wings aren’t actively shopping forward Gustav Nyquist. Nyquist also has some trade protection in his deal. (No-trade clause according to CapFriendly) Teams have been evaluating what they have now and could start to look for outside help.
“Teams that feel like they’re underperforming might be looking (to make a move),” said one NHL general manager on Thursday.
“I think now, guys are starting to call again,” said an assistant GM on Thursday about the trade market.
Nyquist could interest some teams. Two subpar seasons decreased Nyquist’s value, and the Red Wings plan heading into the season was to allow Nyquist and others to improve their value.
Nyquist has scored four goals this season and has been playing with Henrik Zetterberg and Tomas Tatar.
Nyquist has another season left on his contract at a $4.75 million salary cap hit, but his salary increases to $5.5 million next year.
“His contract might be a little rich based on the contract, not the cap,” said the assistant GM. “It’s all about the role you’re going to put him in and the players you’re going to play him with. The guy is intriguing because of his skill and his contract is not terrible.”
The Red Wings would like to add a younger defenseman, but if the Red Wings are to move a winger, Andreas Athanasiou may have more value. If the Red Wings retain some of Nyquist’s salary, that could increase his value.