NHL Rumors: Ducks Prefer To Keep Defenseman Around

According to Pierre LeBrun, the Anaheim Ducks prefer to sign Hampus Lindholm to a contract extension over trading him. However, GM Pat Verbeek will still move him at the deadline if a deal is not finalized between both parties before the deadline.

The biggest issue going with extension talks is that Anaheim is hesitant to give him a long-term deal. However, when looking at all of the mega-deals that have been handed out to top defensemen as of late, it's entirely understandable that Lindholm is seeking one. With this, compromise from both parties is needed for this partnership to continue.

Lindholm has been Anaheim's top defenseman for a while now, so he would be a major loss to their blue line. In 56 games, he has five goals, 15 assists, a plus-5 rating. Overall, it's been another very solid year from the 28-year-old.

If the Ducks are unable to successfully re-sign him, there will be a lot of interest in the trade market. However, if they have it their way, he will be signed instead of traded before the deadline.