3 Teams That Would Benefit Most By Acquiring Flames' Chris Tanev

The Calgary Flames are near the bottom of the standing this season, and things don't appear to be getting any better. Younger players are being called up, contract extension talks have been stopped, and the Flames may very well just make big changes ahead of the trade deadline. Nikita Zadorov has asked for a trade, and it is expected that Chris Tanev will not be moved long after him this season.

Tanev is one of the best defenders in the league, but he is getting older and a bit injury-prone. He is in the final year of his contract that carries a $4.5 million AAV cap hit and has a 10-team no-move clause. He hasn't won a Stanley Cup in his career, and in 14 seasons, has only made the playoffs five times. I don't think he will make it difficult on the Flames to find him a trade this season to a contender who he can help win. These are three teams that could use his services this season.

Toronto Maple Leafs

It seems as though Zadorov's presence is wanted on these teams, but all three can't get him. Especially with Timothy Liljegren injured, a right shot defenseman is even more needed for the Toronto Maple Leafs. John Klingberg is currently the only righty in the lineup, and his struggles have been well documented this season for the team. The Maple Leafs have given up way too many goals for their liking and Tanev could be one of the key pieces to help with that. He was great in the playoffs two seasons ago for the Flames and is motivated.

Vancouver Canucks

The Vancouver Canucks are still searching for a right shot defenseman. Filip Hronek has been much better than the team anticipated, but that still leaves the problem of the second and third pairing. The Canucks would really like to upgrade over Noah Juulsen and need someone to play on the right side. The team's PDO is very high, and that includes the very high save percentage that isn't sustainable. The Canucks are going to have to reduce the high danger scoring chances against and play tighter defense if they want to stay at the top and not fall off. Tanev would be a great piece to do that and they are looking to move money out from their forward group at the same time.

Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers made no changes on the back-end from last season to this one and expected different results. They have gotten worse results this season and they still need help defensively. It would likely cost more for them to acquire someone like Tanev from a rival than for another team, but the Oilers are in no rush to make a rash move and overpay. They will have their eyes on Tanev as they have experienced first hand his impact in games and need help on the right side.