Rumor: Nashville Predators Shopping Two Star Players

The trade deadline is going to offer a number of complicated transactions due to the border restrictions imposed by the Canada and US governments. However, this may discourage international trades, but it won't stop teams from adding immediate depth to their lineup. The Nashville Predators are shopping two players most teams will likely be in on.

Mattias Ekholm trade rumours have been circulating for the past month or so. However, new to the trade board is star player Filip Forsberg. They are ranked 1st and 4th on The Athletic's trade board, respectively. Ekholm (30) and Forsberg (26) each have one year left on their contracts. Ekholm's $3.75 million cap hit should be manageable for most contenders, but the Predators will likely need to retain a portion of Forsberg's $6 million cap hit. 

Teams looking to extend their window or add a top 4 d-man will be willing to make a significant offer for Ekholm. He has the experience and talent to play a secondary role on a successful playoff team. Forsberg, however, is not a rental player. The price for him is said to be quite high, which may make GM's uncomfortable with acquiring him for one year. The Predators could look at extending Forsberg and then deal him, or allow teams to engage in contract discussions before the trade is formalized.

Photographer: Danny Murphy/Icon Sportswire