Calgary may not go rental route
Eric Francis of Sportsnet writes that the Calgary Flames may not be keen on the rental route. Their chances of making the playoffs are still 50-50.
There are no major gaping needs. However, only Brad Treliving knows how long Mike Smith will be out for and there is a need for a top-six winger.
Keep in mind, Calgary has nothing attractive to dangle at the deadline.
The third line is a source of frustration.
Sam Bennett is the one move the team could make. The feeling is that he has stagnated and is cheap enough to entice someone to take a chance.
T.J. Brodie would be one not to trade at this time.
Jon Gillies could be a name to watch if not at the deadline then over the summer.
Tampa will not trade from current roster
Joe Smith of the Tampa Bay Times: Steve Yzerman does not want to trade from his current roster of player which may shoot down Erik Karlsson to Tampa rumors once and for all.
“At the trade deadline, when you’re trying to acquire players, usually teams that are selling are looking for younger players, draft picks and prospects,” Yzerman said. “At this stage, the young players (we have) on our team we want to keep on our team, and we want to add to that.
“We’re trying to keep this team together with the hope of improving it.”
There are others options like Ryan McDonagh and Mike Green. Jack Johnson seems out as Columbus may just re-sign him to an extension.
Yzerman is good with the team he has and has made it clear that mortgaging the future is not an option. Tampa Bay has a deep prospect pool and enough talent for a longer run. Why risk it?
Some things missed yesterday on Montreal
Eric Engels of Sportsnet: (Something we missed in yesterday’s post) More teams think they could be a buyer than not. Marc Bergevin has an undeniable opportunity based on the Michael Grabner and Nick Holden deals.
The other aspect is all the draft picks including three in the second round. Montreal could turn a couple of those into a first potentially in the right package. They may be even able to acquire a first outright for a Max Pacioretty or Alex Galchenyuk. The possibility is there at least.