Capitals Trade Rumors: Veteran Forward Being Shopped Before Deadline

The Washington Capitals have struggled to find consistency this season and expect to see a boat load of changes coming ahead of the trade deadline March 8 and into the offseason. The dynamics of the Capitals as we know them is changing drastically and GM Brian MacLellan will be looking for ways to upgrade his roster and re-tool on the fly.

First order of business? Move on from Max Pacioretty, by the sounds of it. Hockey insider Pierre LeBrun recently mentioned he feels the Capitals could very well ask the veteran winger about being open to a deal. Pacioretty, 35, has battled injuries throughout the last couple of seasons, however with his decorated resume and just $2 million cap hit, expect to see the Caps approach Patches about waiving his no-movement clause ahead of the March 8 trade deadline.

Pacioretty has recorded just one goal and seven points in 14 games,  however with 49 points in 74 Stanley Cup Playoff games and a history of scoring 25-35 goals a season, there's going to be a contender out there willing to take a gamble on the veteran forward.

Teams looking for a boost to their middle six include the Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Avalanche and New York Rangers. At just $2 million against the cap and with cap space like found gold these days, you can't blame a contending for taking a gamble. It likely would only take a third-round pick to get a deal done. 

Photo credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports