Predicting where some of the top NHL trade targets could end up
Chris Johnston and James Mirtle of The Athletic: Looking at the some of the top NHL trade targets and predicting where they could end up – part 4.
Robert Thomas – C – St. Louis Blues – Johnston predicts the Los Angeles Kings as they look for a top center to replace the retiring Anze Kopitar. Have their first-round picks and young players/prospects. Mirtle predicts the Carolina Hurricanes, who have two first-round picks this year.
Shane Wright – C – Seattle Kraken – Johnston predicts the Winnipeg Jets for a move to improve their longer-term future. May take Cole Perfetti. Mirtle predicts the New York Rangers for their retool, in a deal that could include Vincent Trocheck or Alexis Lafreniere.
Nazem Kadri – C – Calgary Flames – Johnston predicts the Montreal Canadiens. Three years left, his age, and the cost are concerns. Mirtle predicts the Minnesota Wild, who can fit his cap hit in and have a big need.
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Dougie Hamilton – RHD – New Jersey Devils – Johnston predicts a reunion with the Carolina Hurricanes. Not a big need for the Hurricanes, but they’re always looking to upgrade. Mirtle predicts the Toronto Maple Leafs despite a source saying the Leafs are unlikely. If it becomes more of a cap dump as opposed to futures, may fit the Leafs as they’ll be looking to rework their blue line.
Chris Johnston and James Mirtle of The Athletic: Looking at some of the top NHL trade targets and predicting where they could end up – part 5.
Vincent Trocheck – C – New York Rangers – Johnston predicts the Minnesota Wild, but do they have the big assets to land him after acquiring Quinn Hughes. Mirtle predicts the Montreal Canadiens who may want to upgrade their 2C. Would he waive to play for a Canadian team?
Bobby McMann – W – Toronto Maple Leafs – Johnston predicts the Edmonton Oilers, who have limited cap space, but brings what the Oilers need. Mirtle predicts the Colorado Avalanche, who could use some depth scoring. Limited draft resources left.
Evander Kane – W – Vancouver Canucks – Johnston predicts the Colorado Avalanche, who would need salary retrained. Could cost a third. Mirtle predicts the Dallas Stars, who would also need salary retention.
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Jesper Wallstedt – G – Minnesota Wild – Johnston predicts the Ottawa Senators, but finding the right trade package may not easy. Mirtle predicts the St. Louis Blues, who could offer up Brayden Schenn or Robert Thomas. Wild would need to include more.
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