10 non-rental players that could be moved …
- Frank Seravalli of TSN: Looking at 10 non-rental players that could be traded at the deadline.Nail Yakupov (22) – a year left at $2.5 million.
Brandon Pirri (24) – pending RFA, qualifying offer of $1 million.
Justin Schultz (25) – pending RFA, qualifying offer of $3.9 million.
Lars Eller (26) – two years left at $3.5 million.
Mikael Backlund (26) – two years left at $3.575 million.
Peter Holland (25) – pending RFA, qualifying offer of $813,750.
Scott Hartnell (33) – three years left at $4.75 million.
Jannik Hansen (29) – two years left at $2.5 million.
Martin Hanzal (29) – one year left at $3.1 million
Matt Hendricks(34) – one year left at $1.85 million.
Five teams that should be aggressive at the trade deadline …
- Criag Custance of ESPN: Teams that should be aggressive at the deadline.Chicago Blackhawks – They don’t have a second round pick this year, but they do have some young talent in their system.
“They’ve got plenty of prospects. It’s amazing,” said a Western Conference executive Monday. “What an unbelievable job they’ve done at replenishing.”
They are trying hard to trade Bryan Bickell to free up more cap space.
Los Angeles Kings – The plan is to keep Marian Gaborik on the IR to free up some money. Mikkel Boedker and Teddy Purcell could be of interest. Belief is they may be willing to move their top prospect Adrian Kempe. They would also like to add some depth on the blueline.
“I do think they’re going to want something on D,” said one exec. “I wouldn’t discount them getting one of each.”
Washington Capitals – Leery of moving their first rounder. Best rental options would be Mikkel Boedker, Andrew Ladd and Loui Eriksson. There is still the thought that they will load up for a Cup run. Best bet may be to added more defensive depth.
St. Louis Blues – Have been hit with injuries lately. Best move may be to wait on Eric Staal. Would also keep Staal away from other teams in the West. They could also be a fit for Loui Eriksson.
Tampa bay Lightning – Are all-in this year, but have cap issues. They would really like to trade Matt Carle and possibly Erik Condra. Justin Schultz makes some sense for them. Yzerman could package Jonathan Drouin with Carle to move his salary, but it would really hurt their return.
“The only way to get rid of is to attach it to Drouin,” said one executive Monday.