NHL Rumors: Insider Lists 3 Teams Searching For Center In Trade Market

According to TSN's Pierre LeBrun, the Calgary Flames, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Nashville Predators are all seeking center depth ahead of the March 7 NHL trade deadline, highlighting a growing trend among playoff contenders.

The Flames are focused on acquiring a second-line center who can contribute both immediately and over the next three to five years.

GM Craig Conroy, encouraged by the team’s strong start, is prepared to adopt an aggressive approach, with LeBrun noting the Flames "could be a bigger player than anticipated" if their playoff position holds.

🚨🎙️ Darren Dreger on a John Tavares contract extension:

“The bottom line is going to be, you know, what’s a fair number? What is that fair AAV? I don’t think it can be $5 million. I think it has to be below that. And if you’re Tavares, maybe you are, you know, looking at it and… pic.twitter.com/ctNwT4o76F
— Leafslatest (@Leafslatest) November 29, 2024

The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, are prioritizing center depth to strengthen their roster during a pivotal season.

LeBrun stated that "all things being equal, probably center depth is where the Leafs are going to look," as GM Brad Treliving balances short-term needs with long-term considerations, including ongoing contract talks with stars Mitch Marner and John Tavares.

Similarly, Nashville GM Barry Trotz has been vocal about improving his team’s options down the middle, emphasizing the importance of a strong top-six to remain competitive in a crowded playoff race.

During a question to Steven Stamkos on how mystifying it is that this team full of potential goal scorers can't score, he seems on the verge of calling some names out, but holds back.

The most frustrated I've seen Stamkos since he's been here. pic.twitter.com/UgGbEqI9KC
— Alex Daugherty (@AlexDaugherty1) November 29, 2024