The NHL trade winds are picking up as teams assess their needs and explore potential deals ahead of the trade deadline in March. Several big names are circulating in the rumor mill, with the Vancouver Canucks and Buffalo Sabres figuring prominently in the discussions.
Canucks in the Spotlight
The Vancouver Canucks find themselves at the center of trade speculation, primarily concerning their star defenseman and captain, Quinn Hughes. Despite Hughes being honored by the team for his performance in November, the trade rumors persist, suggesting a potential significant shakeup in Vancouver. Several teams have expressed interest in Hughes, including the Carolina Hurricanes, Washington Capitals, New Jersey Devils, and Detroit Red Wings. Canucks Head Coach Adam Foote admitted the Hughes trade talk is seeping into the locker room.
The Canucks are reportedly seeking a substantial return for Hughes, potentially including multiple first-round picks, roster players, and prospects. Some teams might view Hughes as a two-year rental, aiming to bolster their chances of winning in the short term. However, the Canucks may also be interested in acquiring a reliable second-line center to address their consistency issues. In line with this need, they have reportedly inquired about Los Angeles Kings center Phillip Danault. Beyond Hughes, other Canucks players like Kiefer Sherwood are also attracting interest from other teams.
Sabres as Potential Sellers
The Buffalo Sabres are once again facing a season of turmoil, potentially leading them to become sellers at the trade deadline. Several players could be on the move if the Sabres don't turn their season around, including winger Alex Tuch and defenseman Bowen Byram. Tuch, a top-six scoring winger with size, could fetch a significant return for the Sabres. However, Byram's performance has been underwhelming, and it's uncertain if he will generate significant interest on the trade market. The fit alongside Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power hasn't materialized as hoped, potentially leading the Sabres to accept a less-than-ideal offer.
The Sabres also have a logjam at the goaltender position, with Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen being a potential trade candidate. The Montreal Canadiens and Edmonton Oilers have reportedly shown interest in Luukkonen, as the Sabres are expected to make multiple goalie moves before next season.
Other Potential Trade Targets
Besides the Canucks and Sabres, other notable players could be on the move. Ryan O'Reilly of the Nashville Predators is drawing interest from the New Jersey Devils, though the Predators are asking for a top prospect and a first-round pick in return. The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly interested in Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Tristan Jarry, but his contract and the Penguins' improved performance might complicate a potential deal.
As the trade deadline approaches, expect more rumors and potential deals to surface as teams jockey for position and aim to improve their rosters for a playoff push.
