On the Winnipeg Jets and the Pittsburgh Penguins
Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Around and around the trade rumors go. It seems that Winnipeg has been heavily scouting Pittsburgh since mid-January. Pittsburgh seems to just be poking and fishing for players.
The reality is that Winnipeg is looking for a cheap top-six winger, something the Penguins have. A source indicated that the Jets could have their first-round pick in play for a top-six.
Pittsburgh seems not likely to part with their first-round pick. It is early in the process though.
Jim Rutherford could make a trade and flip a first for a better player in the trade market – Rangers Michael Grabner or Senators Derick Brassard..
That is plausible. Finally, with the Dion Phaneuf trade, it appears Ian Cole may be off the market. That is not automatic, however.
What would Rick Nash cost the Boston Bruins?
Joe Haggerty of NBC Sports Boston: Nash is going to cost someone likely more than they bargained for. However, the winger does have eight goals in his last 12 games. He is streaky but generates very good possession numbers. That makes him valuable. What would it take to acquire him?
One of Boston’s younger players and maybe even Anders Bjork may do. Brandon Carlo would be another likely target, while Danton Heinen and Jakob DeBrusk seem more off-limits.
Furthermore, the price may drop depending on how much salary New York is willing or not willing to retain. Nash is drawing interest from all over, but again who is willing to pay what exactly.
Not For Sale in San Jose
Paul Gacke of The Sharks Report: San Jose, against all odds, has maintained its standing in the Pacific without Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau. This has put them in a position where they do not have to sell. If anything, they could buy.
There is some concern with the Tomas Hertl injury, but that seems to be minimal.
The younger core has taken over in San Jose and though there are needs, Doug Wilson is not pressed into desperation. That could mean acquiring Rick Nash? Maybe. Maybe not.