NHL Trade Rumors: Six Players Poised for Deadline Moves
The upcoming NHL trade deadline, set for March 6, 2023, is expected to be one of the busiest in recent years. Many teams have held off on making deals due to the impact of the Winter Olympics on player availability. However, as the deadline approaches, various teams will look to finalize their rosters in pursuit of the Stanley Cup. Here are six players likely to be on the move as the deadline approaches.
NHL Trade Rumors: Six Players Poised for Deadline Moves
1. Evgeni Malkin, RW — Pittsburgh Penguins
Evgeni Malkin, a celebrated forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins, is expected to see his time in Pittsburgh come to an end. At 39, Malkin remains impactful, boasting 13 goals and 34 assists in 45 games this season. The Penguins are considering trading him, separating him from fellow star Sidney Crosby. Potential teams interested in Malkin include:
- Boston Bruins
- Edmonton Oilers
- Minnesota Wild
2. Dougie Hamilton, D — New Jersey Devils
Dougie Hamilton may be on the trading block as the New Jersey Devils pivot towards rebuilding. After a strong start to the season, the team is now underperforming, and Hamilton could enhance another team’s defense. He is seen as a valuable asset for contenders. Possible landing spots include:
- Carolina Hurricanes
- Ottawa Senators
- Pittsburgh Penguins
- Toronto Maple Leafs
3. Robert Thomas, C — St. Louis Blues
Despite being only 26, Robert Thomas, a former 80+ point center, is attracting attention as the St. Louis Blues look to rebuild. As the team languishes near the bottom of the Western Conference, they are seeking draft picks and prospects in return for Thomas. Likely contenders for his services include:
- Buffalo Sabres
- Detroit Red Wings
- Carolina Hurricanes
4. Sergei Bobrovsky, G — Florida Panthers
The Florida Panthers have struggled this season, leading them to rethink their competitive stance and consider potential trades. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky remains a talented player who can shine in critical moments, making him a sought-after target. Teams looking to bolster their goaltending could include:
- Vegas Golden Knights
- Edmonton Oilers
- Montreal Canadiens
- Buffalo Sabres
5. Elias Pettersson, C — Vancouver Canucks
Elias Pettersson represents a significant asset as the Vancouver Canucks enter a rebuilding phase. While he possesses high value due to his potential, concerns over his current performance and salary may complicate trade discussions. Interest could come from:
- Detroit Red Wings
- Carolina Hurricanes
6. Vincent Trocheck, C — New York Rangers
Vincent Trocheck’s future with the New York Rangers appears uncertain. Fresh off a gold medal at the Winter Olympics, he finds himself in a situation where he could thrive as a second-line center on a competitive team. Teams seeking a veteran center may consider Trocheck, including:
- Colorado Avalanche
- Detroit Red Wings
- Minnesota Wild
- Carolina Hurricanes
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, these players could significantly impact their new teams’ playoff aspirations. Teams will be closely monitoring the situation as they prepare for what promises to be an eventful trading period.
