On the New York Rangers and Rick Nash …
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Rangers forward Rick Nash hasn’t scored in eight games and has been moved down the lineup. Nash has only two goals in his past 21 games. Brooks wonders where Nash’s value is with the Rangers, as well as in the trade market. Will trade offers be so low that they are easily turned down by GM Jeff Gorton?
Would Gorton consider trading Nash for a second and third round pick? Both would be low picks from a contender.
Nash is a pending free agent with a $7.8 million cap hit.
On five teams that should make a trade well before the NHL trade deadline …
Kevin Allen of the USA Today: Looking at five teams that should make a trade well in advance of the February 26th NHL trade deadline.
New York Islanders: The Islanders are in a 5-10-1 slump but only a point out of the playoffs (before last night’s games). The Islanders have some injuries on the blue line and could use some help in net. Canucks defenseman Erik Gudbranson and Sabres goaltender Robin Lehner could be good fits.
St. Louis Blues: The Blues could use some more scoring depth. Have been reported that they’ve talked to the Senators about Mike Hoffman. Canadiens Max Pacioretty could also interest them.
Toronto Maple Leafs: Could use a big, physical, defensive defenseman. There has been some talk that they could move pending UFA James van Riemsdyk but that seems unlikely. Canucks Erik Gudbranson could be an option.
Pittsburgh Penguins: Could use some scoring depth and maybe a boost to their blue line. The Penguins don’t have the salary cap space to add someone like Evander Kane, but GM Jim Rutherford could find a way.
Los Angeles Kings: Could use some additional scoring help. They are one of the teams that have shown interest in Evander Kane and have the prospects to get it done.