Winnipeg is primed for the trade deadline
Winnipeg Free Press: Mike McIntyre touches up on five players Winnipeg could and should seek during this trade deadline. He ranks them from one to five and starts with arguably the biggest prize — Matt Duchene. Duchene comes down to how high of a price. It may be too high but Cheveldayoff has to at least explore it.
After that, Eric Staal and Kevin Hayes are on the list as far as centers. Questions as to Staal’s availability have come up, while Hayes’ may carry a higher price than expected.
Winnipeg will be in on these as well as Jake Muzzin. Muzzin carries a reasonable salary but one more year on his deal. That is the one snag but one which could improve the defense further.
Decision looming on Jimmy Howard
Nichols On Hockey: Jimmy Howard trade deadline rumors are nothing new. However, the closer the deadline comes, the more likely a deal happens. This quote comes from Elliotte Friedman:
“I think one of the more interesting ones is Jimmy Howard. Detroit is talking about they want a first-round pick for him, but I think he wants to stay. I’m not going to be surprised if at some point Detroit comes to him and says, ‘Okay, we’ll put a two-year offer on the table. What do you think?’
“I think his preference is to stay, although I’m sure if Detroit gets a first-rounder, they’re going to think about it.”
The goaltender has the potential to fetch a nice return for a rebuilding Detroit team. He possesses no-trade protection in this final year of his deal. That is something to keep in mind as the deadline approaches.
Chicago likely still selling?
The Athletic: Scott Powers talks about how Chicago is still unsure of what they may do at the deadline. The white flag appears raised given their record but one is unsure of what pieces they may sell.
The one wrinkle may be Collin Delia. Delia presents a dilemma to Stan Bowman as Cam Ward has a no-movement clause.
Things opened up defensively with the Brandon Manning trade which may mean more moves to come in the future.
Chicago’s lack of offensive depth is glaring but prospect wise, the Blackhawks have an almost full cupboard which could make more players expendable.