So what about Niklas Hjalmarsson?
Jamie McLennan of TSN: On the latest needs of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Arizona Coyotes defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson would make lots of sense for the Leafs, and slots into the “Shanaplan.” He is the steady presence that Toronto needs in any playoff run.
Arizona is up against the standard playing contract maximum of 50 and would likely want just a pick in return or picks. The Coyotes may even be willing to retain a little salary. Hjalmarsson does have the rest of this year and next year at $4.1 million. Keep that in mind.
Maroon on Boston radar?
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: opines that Patrick Maroon is on Boston Bruins radar. There are questions as to what it may cost. Some speculate it may be a pick or maybe even a young forward.
Edmonton wants to get younger and one of those young prospects from Boston may just be enough. Boston does not want to part with their first-round pick and possibly their second for Maroon. Therefore, a conditional pick and young prospect could even suffice.
From McDonagh to Pittsburgh to Faulk?
Dan Rosen of NHL.com: The questions are plenty in the NHL.com mailbag and Rosen has some interesting answers. Some include McDonagh to Tampa Bay, what Pittsburgh may do, and Justin Faulk trade possibilities.
A lot of stories seem to involve Tampa Bay in some way. Few should be surprised by that. They are one of the best teams but have sputtered over the last month or so. Steve Yzerman is looking for that final piece or three. One possibility is Ryan McDonagh but the price may be too steep (Mikhail Sergachev plus more). Another option is Justin Faulk, who would cost less. Faulk has struggled, however, he is playing better of late.
Pittsburgh, unlike Vegas, will make a move or two. They need a depth center badly. Mark Letestu or Derick Brassard could be on that list. Letestu seems the easier and less costly option. That fits into the Penguins cap too.