NHL Trade Rumors: Insider Lists "10 Early NHL Trade Candidates"

Friday, November 01, 2024

In a recent article for The Athletic, Chris Johnston highlighted ten NHL players who could significantly impact the trade landscape this season. 

Leading the list are Montreal Canadiens center Christian Dvorak and San Jose Sharks defenseman Cody Ceci, both pending unrestricted free agents from rebuilding teams. 

Johnston notes that “Dvorak and Ceci offer solid depth options” for contenders, especially those seeking affordable, reliable reinforcements ahead of a playoff push. 

Their expiring contracts make them logical targets for teams aiming to bolster their bottom lines without long-term commitments.

Johnston also discusses players with higher trade value and potential playoff impact, such as Anaheim Ducks’ veteran Cam Fowler and New York Islanders forward Brock Nelson. 

A mainstay in Anaheim for 15 years, Fowler has a limited no-trade clause and could waive it to pursue a playoff opportunity, especially with the Ducks shifting to a younger defensive core. 

Johnston suggests that “Fowler’s experience and versatility” would be valuable to contenders if he’s open to a move. Nelson, who can contribute on both ends and special teams, may also draw interest as a rental if the Islanders falter, given his size, scoring ability, and expiring contract.

Additionally, Winnipeg Jets winger Nikolaj Ehlers and Anaheim goalie John Gibson present intriguing situations rather than active trade bait. 

Ehlers, a key player in Winnipeg’s strong start, is a pending free agent, and his contract status could make him either a deadline target or an “own rental” if the Jets make a deep run. 

Meanwhile, Gibson, recovering from an emergency appendectomy, could interest teams needing goaltending stability, especially with Ducks backup Lukáš Dostál prepared to take on a larger role.

Photo Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images



Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | MLB Rumors

Post a Comment