3 Potential Trade Destinations for Flames D Juuso Valimaki

The Calgary Flames are off to a decent start this season but it appears not everyone is happy. Defenseman Juuso Valimaki recently spoke with reporters from Finland and voiced his displeasure regarding his role on the team. A trade could be coming next.

Let's take a look at some teams who could be interested in the Flames defenseman:

Detroit Red Wings: The Wings have four defenseman who are pending unrestricted free-agents and Valimaki is signed for next season so there could be some appeal here. Throw in the fact he's only making $1.55 million and they could certainly fit him under their cap. The former first-round pick would cost a prospect and a pick and Detroit has plenty to go around.

Buffalo Sabres: The Flames and Sabres had been discussing trades for weeks but that involved Jack Eichel. It's believed Valimaki was involved in those talks and the Sabres could very easily circle back. They would love to add a young mobile defenseman with some upside and keep an eye on these two teams working something out this season.

New York Islanders: The Islanders are looking for a defenseman making under $2 million and have been linked to some other teams. They have a number of prospects in their system who have underperformed and could benefit from a change of scenery, so the makings of a deal could present themselves here. Perhaps a Michael Dal Colle for Valimaki swap would work. Two former first-round picks who could use some new jersey colors, we could potentially see it before the Christmas roster freeze.

Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports