The NHL trade winds are picking up as teams assess their strengths and weaknesses ahead of the playoff push. With American Thanksgiving, a traditional marker for playoff probability, now passed, the urgency to make impactful changes is palpable. The Nashville Predators, Edmonton Oilers, and Toronto Maple Leafs are at the center of the latest trade buzz, each for distinct reasons.
Nashville Predators: Open for Business?
The Nashville Predators find themselves at the bottom of the NHL standings, prompting widespread speculation about potential roster shakeups. General Manager Barry Trotz has expressed his frustration with the team's performance, suggesting that changes are on the horizon. Several veteran players are reportedly available, including Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, who are open to joining a contender.
The most prominent name circulating in trade rumors is Ryan O'Reilly. Several teams are interested in O'Reilly, including the Montreal Canadiens, who are looking to bolster their top-six center depth. However, the Predators' asking price, reportedly a first-round pick and a top prospect, may be a stumbling block. Despite having an unofficial no-trade clause, O'Reilly may be moved to a contender if the Predators decide to rebuild. Goaltender Juuse Saros has also been mentioned in trade discussions, but his recent performance may complicate matters. Even franchise cornerstones Roman Josi and Filip Forsberg could be available, though a move involving either player is more likely in the offseason.
Edmonton Oilers: Goaltending Overhaul Imminent?
The Edmonton Oilers' struggles between the pipes have been well-documented, leading to intense scrutiny of their goaltending situation. After an 8-3 loss to the Dallas Stars, the Oilers may be reaching a breaking point with Stuart Skinner, and the team has reportedly intensified its search for a new goalie.
Several goaltenders have been linked to the Oilers, including Jordan Binnington of the St. Louis Blues and Tristan Jarry of the Pittsburgh Penguins. A potential trade with St. Louis involving Binnington could include Stuart Skinner and a defenseman. The Oilers were also considering calling up goalie Connor Ingram from the minors, but some veterans advocated for sticking with Calvin Pickard. Ultimately, the Oilers didn't make a move, but their .860 team save percentage, the worst in the league since 1979-80, may force them to reconsider.
Toronto Maple Leafs: Searching for Defensive Stability
The Toronto Maple Leafs are also reportedly active in the trade market, seeking to address their defensive woes. The team has been linked to Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes, with NHL analyst Bryan Hayes suggesting a blockbuster trade involving Matthew Knies and draft picks. However, the Canucks are reportedly not interested in moving Hughes, who is considered a key part of their future.
Another potential trade target for the Maple Leafs is Buffalo Sabres defenseman Brandon Carlo. The Leafs and Sabres reportedly discussed a potential trade involving Carlo and Bowen Byram during the summer, and those talks could be reignited. Morgan Rielly's name has also surfaced in trade rumors, with GM Brad Treliving reportedly setting high expectations for the veteran defenseman. Other potential trade targets for the Maple Leafs include Brayden Schenn of the St. Louis Blues, as well as Tuch and Coleman.
