The NHL Trade Targets Board is heating up as the Olympic roster freeze approaches, with just 11 days between the end of the trade freeze and the March 6 Trade Deadline. Among the players on the list, Evander Kane, Lukas Reichel, Teddy Blueger, Elias Pettersson, Jake DeBrusk, and Conor Garland are all under scrutiny.
Evander Kane, a local boy returning to his roots, is an expiring asset on a sinking ship. While he's no longer a frontline player, his ability to chip in the odd goal makes him a valuable addition for a contender willing to retain part of his salary. Lukas Reichel, despite being acquired in October, was made available for trade shortly after, and his speed and skill have yet to translate into NHL production. He's passed through waivers unclaimed, indicating a low market value, but a team could take a chance on the former first-round pick.
Teddy Blueger, who has boosted his trade value with his strong faceoff ability and penalty kill, is a prototypical fourth-line pivot that contenders could covet. Elias Pettersson, despite his elite ceiling, is currently underperforming at $11.6 million. However, insider Frank Seravalli reports growing suspicion that a trade could happen soon, potentially before the Olympics, but his no-movement clause gives him control over the destination.
Jake DeBrusk, with a tough fit due to the length of his contract, is an intriguing depth addition for a contender with a playoff history of averaging 26 goals per 82 games. Conor Garland, despite his six-year extension with a no-movement clause, is still on the table, and Vancouver is taking calls, suggesting interest in his speed and scrappiness if the Canucks decide to listen.
The NHL Trade Deadline is set for March 6, and the race is on to make the most of the trade landscape.
