With the NHL trade deadline just 10 weeks away, teams are already looking to make moves to improve their rosters for a playoff push. In a season where there has been plenty of trade action already, it’s never too early to start speculating on potential trade fits between teams and available players.
Here is a breakdown of some potential trade scenarios based on the latest NHL trade big board:
Mikael Granlund
- Team: San Jose Sharks
- Position: Forward
- Age: 32
- Contract Term: 2025 UFA
- AAV: $5 million
LeBrun’s Prediction: Vegas Golden Knights
Mikael Granlund has been a key player for the Sharks, leading the team in scoring and providing leadership both on and off the ice. While there is a possibility of him signing an extension with the Sharks, there is also interest from other teams. The Vegas Golden Knights could benefit from Granlund’s versatility and experience, especially considering Mark Stone’s injury concerns.Johnston’s Prediction: Minnesota Wild
A return to the Minnesota Wild could be a sentimental move for Granlund, who spent seven seasons with the team. The Wild could use his offensive skills and flexibility in their lineup, making it a potential reunion that makes sense for both sides.Rasmus Ristolainen
- Team: Philadelphia Flyers
- Position: Defense
- Age: 30
- Contract Term: 2027 UFA
- AAV: $5.1 million
LeBrun’s Prediction: Winnipeg Jets
Ristolainen’s improved play this season has garnered interest from other teams, including the Winnipeg Jets. His size and defensive abilities would be a valuable addition to the Jets’ blue line, especially with a need for stability on the right side.Johnston’s Prediction: Dallas Stars
The Dallas Stars, who are in win-now mode, could benefit from adding Ristolainen to their defensive core. His contract term aligns with the team’s goals, and his improved performance makes him an attractive trade target.Taylor Hall
- Team: Chicago Blackhawks
- Position: Forward
- Age: 33
- Contract Term: 2025 UFA
- AAV: $6 million
LeBrun’s Prediction: Utah HC
Despite the Blackhawks not committing to trading Hall yet, a move to a playoff contender could reignite his game. Utah HC, if they stay in playoff contention, could benefit from Hall’s offensive skills and experience, making him a potential target for the team.Johnston’s Prediction: Colorado Avalanche
The Colorado Avalanche could use Hall’s offensive prowess in their top six, especially with uncertainty surrounding Gabriel Landeskog’s health. Hall’s speed and playmaking ability could complement the Avalanche’s high-powered offense.Will Borgen
- Team: New York Rangers
- Position: Defense
- Age: 28
- Contract Term: 2025 UFA
- AAV: $2.7 million
LeBrun’s Prediction: Florida Panthers
Borgen, acquired recently by the Rangers, could be on the move again as a pending UFA. The Florida Panthers, in need of defensive depth, could benefit from Borgen’s penalty-killing abilities and physical presence on the blue line.Johnston’s Prediction: Vancouver Canucks
The Vancouver Canucks, struggling with injuries on defense, could use Borgen’s steady play and size on the right side of their blue line. His defensive capabilities would be a valuable addition to the Canucks’ lineup.Brandon Tanev
- Team: Seattle Kraken
- Position: Forward
- Age: 32
- Contract Term: 2025 UFA
- AAV: $3.5 million
LeBrun’s Prediction: New Jersey Devils
If the Kraken become sellers, Tanev is likely to be on the move. The New Jersey Devils, in need of bottom-six depth, could benefit from Tanev’s gritty style of play and penalty-killing abilities.Johnston’s Prediction: Vegas Golden Knights
The Vegas Golden Knights, looking to bolster their forward depth, could target Tanev to add a physical presence to their lineup. His work ethic and energy could be a good fit for a team with a strong playoff push.As the trade deadline approaches, these potential trade scenarios could shape the landscape of the NHL playoff race. Teams will be looking to make moves to improve their chances of success, and these players could be key pieces in that puzzle.
