On teams looking for forwards …
TSN Insider Trading: Bob McKenzie: Trade talks have really picked up in the past seven to 10 days. Teams looking for a forward include the Anaheim Ducks, Boston Bruins, Columbus Blue Jackets, Edmonton Oilers, Florida Panthers, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, St. Louis Blues and Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Ducks, Canadiens, and Rangers would be looking for a center. The Panthers are looking for a scoring winger.
There may be a lot of talks, but may not be a lot of action.
Pierre LeBrun: The Lightning would like a top-nine winger, someone to play with Tyler Johnson and Alex Killorn. They may be hoping someone internally steps up. If nobody steps up, can see GM Steve Yzerman being aggressive before the trade deadline.
Darren Dreger: The Penguins are another team to keep an eye on. GM Jim Rutherford is patient. Teams usually wait until the 20-25 game mark, but the Penguins may wait until the 30-35 game mark. They may need a bit more insurance in net, someone that could play in the AHL but be capable if called up.
On the New York Rangers …
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Pending free agent Rick Nash‘s greatest value for the Rangers may be a rental trade chip for future assets before the trade deadline. Nash is aware of the situation and what might be coming.
“I’ve aware of that, I’ve thought about that; for sure I have,” No. 61 told The Post following practice Tuesday. “It’s not something that’s weighing on me, but of course I’m aware of my contract status and whatever implications might come out of that. It’s the first time in my career that I’m playing for a contract.
“I want to be here, that’s my priority, but I also understand the business side of it and that management has to do what they feel is in the best interests of the organization. That thought definitely creeps in from time to time.”
If GM Jeff Gorton thinks the Rangers can make a run, they won’t be looking to move him. The Rangers could look to sign him to an extension, which is his first choice.
Would a four-year deal at $5 to $5.5 million be unrealistic?
The Rangers also have to deal with pending RFAs in J.T. Miller, Kevin Hayes, Jimmy Vesey and Brady Skjei.