Avalanche Rumors: 3 Unexpected Teams Mittelstadt Could Be Traded To

The Colorado Avalanche are likely going to make more moves before they are done this season ahead of a playoff run. After trading Mikko Rantanen and being expected to make another addition, the team could also end the Casey Mittelstadt experiment and move him this season. If that happens, there are three under the radar teams that could strike a deal.

Nashville Predators

The Nashville Predators are in an odd spot, but they haven't given up yet even though all hope seems lost this season. With the veterans on the team, giving up on one or more of them would signal a restructure at the very least, possibly a rebuild.

If the Predators are looking to re-tool and bring in some younger pieces, Mittelstadt could be a great option. He isn't too expensive and could slide into the second line center role that Nashville needs to address. Even if there is a rebuild starting, he is young enough that he could be part of the solution. Meanwhile, the Predators have a lot of options, so paying for Mittelstadt wouldn't be an issue.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Pittsburgh Penguins are also going through some changes, but they are more open to selling and have already started the process with Marcus Pettersson. Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby won't be in the league for too much longer, and whether the team wants to try to win until they're gone or rebuild sooner, Mittelstadt can step in and fill a role. He's not at the same level, but is still young and can produce. He needs a change in scenery and some of the recent players who have come to Pittsburgh have found their game.

Vancouver Canucks

The Vancouver Canucks don't look overly strong at forward for a team that appears to still be trying to win. They are in a wildcard battle, but are going to need a better group of players if they are to have any sort of impact. Filip Chytil hasn't been the healthiest, so if he goes down, having Mittelstadt as an option down the middle who can play as the second line center would be key.

The Avalanche are a real contender and Mittelstadt doesn't appear to be the player the team needs to be in the position they want for a deep playoff run. We'll see what transpires from this shortly.