NHL Trade Rumors: Utah Shopping For Defenseman

The Utah Hockey Club is shopping the market for a defenseman following injuries to key blueliners Sean Durzi and John Marino, according to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun. 

With Marino sidelined until at least January and Durzi out until April, Utah GM Bill Armstrong is feeling the pressure to keep the team competitive in its inaugural season. 

“New market, new owner—they want to be way more competitive this year,” LeBrun noted, emphasizing that Utah is focused on maintaining its playoff aspirations despite the setbacks.

What a goal by Ivan Provorov to win it in overtime pic.twitter.com/NjFpDTKRNM

— Nasty Knuckles (@NastyKnuckles) April 14, 2023

Among Utah’s targets is Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Ivan Provorov, who is in the final year of his contract with 30% of his salary retained. 

Provorov, considered one of the top rental options as the March 7 trade deadline approaches, has drawn interest across the league. 

While Columbus GM Don Waddell isn’t ready to move Provorov yet, preferring to let the current roster compete early in the season, LeBrun suggests that a bidding war could emerge closer to the deadline. 

“All things being equal, Provorov will be one of the rental players moved by March 7,” LeBrun added.

Ivan Provorov undresses Max Domi for the OT winner 🔥 pic.twitter.com/NphLpJirMP

— Murph (@2Murphy8) March 24, 2020

Utah is exploring short-term options over players with term, given that Durzi and Marino are expected to return later in the season. 

“The rental piece is where Utah probably will go if they decide to make a trade,” LeBrun said.

Photo Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images