NHLTR: Buffalo and Carolina currently active in trade talks

The eastern conference is as close as ever, as parity across the league tickles Gary Bettman's fancy. Teams continue to evaluate their squads as the 'American Thanksgiving' check-point approaches. Trade winds continue to blow and more specifically, within the cities of Buffalo and Carolina, no Hurricane pun intended.

The Buffalo Sabres are willing to move the likes of Rasmus Ristolainen or Jake McCabe, once they are back to full compliment with Marco Scandella and Zach Bogosian returning from injury. Don't count out a move for either of the latter, as both Scandella and Bogosian are upcoming unrestricted free agents and may be moved for some veteran presence up front, as Buffalo is trying to get battle tested for the playoffs.

Meanwhile in Carolina, TSN's Pierre LeBrun confirmed the 'Canes are open to moving Trevor van Riemsdyk and/or Haydn Fleury, to one, open up a spot for top prospect Jake Bean, but to also fill out their forwards with some playoff experience as they await word if Justin Williams is coming back.

Expect teams like Colorado, San Jose, Vancouver, and Arizona to be in the mix for help on their back end. For now, lots of chatter and little execution, but expect that to change as the American thanksgiving approaches.