The NHL trade season is alive and well, and with the Olympic break and roster freeze right around the corner, we could see a flurry of trades before Wednesday’s freeze comes into effect. While some teams are still trying to figure out which path to take, others are already pushing to make moves.
The biggest example of that right now might be the New York Rangers, who are actively trying to move Artemi Panarin. Over the next few days, that list could grow. Additionally, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a deal or two get done before the freeze hits.
In today’s edition of NHL Trade Watch, we take a look at NHL insider Elliotte Friedman’s report that the Toronto Maple Leafs are testing the market on their players. We also dig into potential Michael Bunting trade talk. In addition, we ask whether the Edmonton Oilers are once again in the market for goaltending help.
Bunting Trade Talk
On a recent episode of 32 Thoughts, the podcast, Friedman went through a list of names that could be on the move this season. When he got to the Nashville Predators, he mentioned a few players, but none stood out quite like Bunting. He also brought up Michael McCarron and Nick Perbix. However, Bunting is likely to fetch the highest return in the open market.
If Bunting can keep things under control, he’s a perfect add for a team heading into the playoffs. He knows how to get under opponents’ skin and draw penalties. The downside, of course, is that he can cross the line at times and hurt his team in key moments. Still, if a team can rein that in early, he fits nicely anywhere in a middle six. One team Friedman mentioned as having interest was the New York Islanders. Who previously tried to acquire him but couldn’t reach a deal. Therefore, if the Predators fall out of the race or decide to move some of their UFAs, Bunting is a name to watch.
Oilers Eyeing Goaltending Depth?
While there hasn’t been an official report yet. It’s hard not to wonder if this is at least being discussed internally. The Oilers made a splash earlier this season. When they acquired Tristan Jarry from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Stuart Skinner and more. It worked early on. But after last night’s game, which saw Jarry get pulled. Questions are starting to surface about whether this tandem can deliver results.
If the front office decides it can’t, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them push for another goaltender at the deadline. There are a few names that could make sense, depending on the asking price. Jesper Wallstedt is the obvious one, especially after he played lights out against them. Sam Montembeault with the Montreal Canadiens could be another option if he needs a change of scenery. There’s also Anthony Stolarz with the Maple Leafs, who could be available if Toronto commits to selling assets as part of a mini retool. The next few days in Edmonton should be telling as they evaluate their goalie duo heading into the break. Especially after placing Calvin Pickard on waivers, which could indicate they are working on something.
Maple Leafs Testing the Market
Friedman made it official on Saturday Headlines, the Maple Leafs are testing the market on their players. He noted that Toronto is well aware of its position in the standings and has started calling around the league to gauge interest in parts of its roster. Here’s what he had to say:
Now, something is different. Everyone sees the standings. Everybody sees that the Maple Leafs are in a position they didn’t expect to be in.
One thing they have done this week is begin the process of calling around the league and seeing what is available to them, with them being in a position where they might have to consider some things they didn’t expect to consider.
This has been talked about for the past few weeks, but it’s safe to assume the UFAs would be the first to go. That group includes Bobby McMann, Scott Laughton, and Calle Järnkrok. From there, you have names like Stolarz, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Brandon Carlo, and potentially even Max Domi or Matias Maccelli. There are a lot of moving parts, and it’s still hard to get a clear sense of what direction they’ll take. This is especially true given how closely the Maple Leafs keep their plans.
Next: NHL Trade Watch: Maple Leafs Selling, Panarin Interest, Wright On The Move?
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