NHL Rumors: 3 Potential Landing Spots for Zdeno Chara

The New York Islanders have received trade offers for veteran defenseman Zdeno Chara and from all accounts it sounds like the towering presence will be moved before the March 21 trade deadline. Let's take a look at 3 potential destinations for 'Big Z':

Tampa Bay Lightning

The back-to-back champs aren't messing around and have checked in on some interesting names on the trade market including Chara. The Lightning currently have only $100,000 in cap space according to Cap Friendly so any move they make will be for minimal salaries, so Chara and his $750,000 deal is perfectly suited. At 44 years old he's still averaging over 18 minutes of ice-time a night and has recorded 92 hits and 58 blocked shots. Music to the ears of the Lightning as according to David Pagnotta of Fourth Period, they have been in touch with the Isles.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have checked in on Zdeno Chara per David Pagnotta. pic.twitter.com/HdUwLC8n4Z
— EVERYDAYISLES  (@EverydayIsles) March 4, 2022

Toronto Maple Leafs

While it doesn't seem like Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello will be in the mood to help the Maple Leafs just yet, Toronto is one team who could benefit from adding Chara to their lineup. The Leafs are dealing with a scary injury situation with Jake Muzzin as he suffered two concussions in basically a month and now is a huge question mark for the rest of the season. Chara would help with the defensive side of the puck and could be a reasonable replacement on a very cheap contract. Uncle Lou may feel much differently.

Calgary Flames

The Flames are working the phones trying to add another defenseman before the deadline and Chara would be an interesting fit. Calgary has been also linked to a reunion with Mark Giordano, however adding someone like Chara would allow the team to make multiple additions instead of just one big fish. With their defensive-heavy system this could be a perfect fit and would certainly give the Flames a new element to their team and add some more toughness. Chara's resume speaks for itself and how often can you add a defensive defenseman with 200 games of Stanley Cup experience who is on such a cheap contract. Look for the Flames to make an offer before the deadline.

Photo credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports