As the NHL season progresses toward the Olympic break and the trade deadline, speculation is swirling around potential player movement for several teams. The Detroit Red Wings, Edmonton Oilers, and New York Rangers are at the center of these rumors, each with different needs and objectives as they navigate the current landscape.
Red Wings in Pursuit of Andersson
The Detroit Red Wings are reportedly still in the market for a top-four defenseman after missing out on Quinn Hughes. General Manager Steve Yzerman is known to be aggressive in his pursuit of improving the team's blue line, and the latest target appears to be Rasmus Andersson of the Calgary Flames. Andersson, 29, is in the final year of his contract, carrying a $4.55 million AAV. He has been a key player for the Flames, logging the most minutes on the team this season and contributing offensively with 28 points in 45 games.
While the Red Wings have reportedly begun conversations with the Flames, a deal is not imminent. Yzerman is likely seeking clarity on a contract extension with Andersson before committing significant assets. This echoes the situation with Hughes, where Yzerman was unwilling to meet the asking price without an extension in place. Although Andersson is a right-shot defenseman, a position already occupied by Moritz Seider and Axel Sandin-Pellikka in Detroit, there's potential for him to shift to the left side or take on a different role within the defensive pairings.
Oilers Exploring Blue Line and Forward Depth
The Edmonton Oilers are also looking to bolster their roster ahead of the trade deadline. While their priority is reportedly adding scoring depth on the wing, they are also exploring options to add experience and stability to their blue line. With Jake Walman and Tristan Jarry nearing their returns from injury, the Oilers are preparing for a potential roster shakeup. The team recently signed Quinn Hutson to a two-year contract extension, indicating a focus on developing young talent.
The Oilers have been linked to Dougie Hamilton of the New Jersey Devils. However, Hamilton's $9 million cap hit and no-trade clause could complicate any potential move. Other reports suggest the Oilers may be looking for a more affordable, physical defenseman in the mold of "Ekholm Jr.". There have also been rumors that the Oilers are open to trading Andrew Mangiapane, who has not lived up to expectations since being acquired.
Rangers at a Crossroads
The New York Rangers are facing a critical juncture in their season, and the trade deadline could be a turning point for the team. With the team struggling to meet expectations, General Manager Chris Drury may be open to selling off pieces, including pending unrestricted free agents.
One of the biggest names potentially on the move is Artemi Panarin. The star winger is in the final year of his contract, and extension talks have reportedly stalled. The Rangers may be hesitant to offer a lucrative long-term deal to the 34-year-old, and trading him could bring back valuable assets to help the team rebuild. Another player who might be on the move is former first-overall pick Alexis Lafrenière. Despite his potential, Lafrenière has not developed into the star the Rangers had hoped for, and a change of scenery could benefit both the player and the team.
