Here’s the deal on top trade targets
As deadline looms, there’s plenty of talent that could be available
The NHL trade deadline is less than a week away — next Monday, 3 p.m. — and it could be a day when the Ottawa Senators, who can’t break ground on a new arena, at least get a start on a major rebuild. If the Senators can’t sign their soon-to-be free agents this week, they could be the key players on deadline day.
A look at the top 15 available players, with possible destinations:
Matt Duchene, Ottawa: On his way to his second 30-goal season, Duchene could be a major help for any of the prime contenders. He can play centre or wing. The Predators and Jets are both interested. Artemi Panarin, Columbus: There’s a buzz about the Bruins being a good fit because they have offensive assets to give back to the Blue Jackets. But let’s not forget they rented Rick Nash last season and it didn’t work out. Don’t rule out the Islanders. If the Blue Jackets trade Panarin, they must acquire a player who can help now because they are still in the playoff race.
Mark Stone, Ottawa: The Golden Knights, looking to improve their scoring depth, are likely interested, as are the Flames, Bruins and Jets. Stone is an excellent two-way winger. Kevin Hayes, New York Rang
ers: The Jets have been looking for a scoring centre like Hayes. He could slide neatly into the team’s No. 2 line. Wayne Simmonds, Philadelphia: As well as Philadelphia has played of late, it’s still unlikely the Flyers make the playoffs. They will get a strong return for the tough, gritty Simmonds, even as his offensive production has waned. The Lightning, Bruins, Predators and Sharks are among the interested teams. Mats Zuccarello, New York Rangers: With 37 points in 44 games, Zuccarello has had a quality season — and he has seven points in his past four games, so he’s continued to enhance his trade value. The Flames, Golden Knights, Stars, Blue Jackets and Islanders are interested.
Ryan Dzingel, Ottawa: Of Ottawa’s three pending unrestricted free agents on this list, he’s the one with the best chance of re-signing. If he doesn’t, every contender will be interested.
Eric Staal, Minnesota: He would rank higher if he didn’t have a 10-team no-trade clause and a reluctance to be moved. He would be a nice fit for the Jets. Gustav Nyquist, Detroit: The Red Wings want to re-sign Nyquist who has played well this season with 48 points. If that doesn’t happen, he will be among the most desired second-tier forwards. Stars GM Jim Nill, who spent time as a Red Wings assistant GM, knows him well. The Sharks, Hurricanes, Capitals and Islanders could also be interested.
Charlie Coyle, Minnesota: Coyle is a perfect fit for a playoff team looking to strengthen their third line because he has scoring ability and size. He has another season left on his contract. The Canadiens are interested.
Sergei Bobrovsky, Columbus: We know Bobrovsky’s career in Columbus is over after this season. The Blue Jackets want to move him now, but the market for goalies hasn’t developed. He may stay in Columbus.
Jimmy Howard, Detroit: The veteran goalie would prefer to re-up with the Red Wings. They want him back. But if the price is right, the Red Wings would deal Howard and try to re-sign him this summer. If Bobrovsky is moved, the Blue Jackets will look at Howard.
Marcus Johansson, New Jersey: With10 points in his past12 games, Johansson might be the solution for a team wanting to improve depth without giving up much. Could Washington be interested in reacquiring him?
Jakob Silfverberg, Anaheim: He could be a cheaper option for a team looking for scoring depth and not willing to pay the price for Stone. This seems like a move the Hurricanes might consider.
Micheal Ferland, Carolina: The Canes are viewing Ferland like he’s a rental player they acquired. They are in a fight for a playoff spot, and if they move him, they would have to replace him. Carolina is one point outside the playoffs.