The 2023 NHL offseason is setting up to be a wild few months. There's already been a blockbuster trade and look for several other big names to be dealt as the NHL's silly season begins. Here's five big names who we expect to be traded:
Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets
Contract: $6.1 mil, one season left to UFA
Trade Protection: None
There's no doubt Hellebuyck is getting moved by the Jets as he's informed GM Kevin Cheveldayoff he doesn't intend to stay in Winnipeg past the 2023-24 season. The Jets' phones have been ringing off the hook as Hellebuyck is a top-3 goalie in the league. Last season the former fifth-round pick posted a 37-25-2 record with a 2.49 GAA and .920 Sv.%. He's one of the best in the game and there will be no shortage of interest. Favorites include the LA Kings, Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins and Toronto Maple Leafs.
Erik Karlsson, San Jose Sharks
Contract: $11.5 mil, four seasons left
Trade Protection: Full no-movement clause
The Sharks and Karlsson are currently working on a trade as it's over for the veteran defenseman in San Jose. He has full control of his next move and so far, the Ottawa Senators and Edmonton Oilers continue to be linked. The Sharks will need to retain some money but if they can get this deal done before the draft, it's going to be a massive return heading to San Jose.
Pierre-Luc Dubois, Winnipeg Jets
Contract: Needs new contract, RFA status
Trade Protection: None
The Jets are the team to watch this summer as their core will be changing. Dubois has given Kevin Cheveldayoff a number of teams he'd prefer to play for as this deal will be a bit complicated. No team is going to trade for one season of Dubois, unless he's willing to re-sign an extension. Montreal continues to the favorite.
Scott Laughton, Philadelphia Flyers
Contract: $3 million, three seasons left
Trade Protection: None
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reported earlier this offseason that the Flyers were listening to trade offers on Laughton. He's a pro's pro and someone with a ton of character. Nothing flashy in his game and he's got the versatility to help all over the lineup and in all situations. Last season Laughton finished with 43 points in 78 games. The Flyers are hitting the rebuild button and will be open to moving just about anyone.
Justin Faulk, St Louis Blues
Contract: $6.5 million, four seasons left
Trade Protection: Full no-trade clause
The Blues are moving one defenseman this summer and it's likely Faulk based on the fact Colton Parayko's contract is scaring off other teams. Faulk's still one of the best offensively in the league, finishing last season with 50 points in 82 games. St Louis is looking to retool a little bit up front and only have $7.5 million in cap space available. Moving Faulk opens up possibilities and the Blues will be able to land a couple of nice assets in return. Expect to see Faulk head east this summer.
Five players who have crept up the trade board early this offseason. Look for the full Top-20 NHLTR trade candidates coming out soon.
Photo credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports
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