NHL Rumors: Claude Giroux Has Preferred Trade Destination

Philadelphia Flyers forward Claude Giroux has informed general manager Chuck Fletcher that he would prefer to be traded to the Colorado Avalanche if moved, according to Adrian Dater of Colorado Hockey Now. With that, he noted that he'd also be open to playing for the Minnesota Wild or St. Louis Blues as backup options.

I'm told that Claude Giroux has made it known to Flyers GM Chuck Fletcher that Colorado is where he wants to go. If somehow that doesn't work out, Minnesota or St. Louis would be acceptable alternatives @ColHockeyNow
— Adrian Dater (@adater) February 15, 2022

Giroux has a no-movement clause, so he is in complete over whether or not he will be traded by the deadline. Thus, him letting Fletcher know that Colorado is his preferred destination helps the Avalanche's chances of landing him significantly.

It's already been established that the Avalanche have expressed interest in Giroux, so there seems to be a good chance he will end up there. It would be massive for them to land him, as they already are dominant this campaign. They have a 34-8-4 record at this time, and adding another like Giroux would make them even more difficult to beat.

Giroux would fit nicely in their top six as a winger. The Avalanche appear to be all set down the middle, but he is an extremely versatile player who can play all three forward positions. Due to this, there is a potential fit there with the Avalanche.

In 44 games this season, Giroux has 15 goals and 36 points. Overall, it's been another very good season from the 34-year-old.

Alas, we will have to wait and see if Giroux gets his wish and ends up on the Avalanche. If not, the Wild and Blues will have to swoop in and try to win the sweepstakes.