The NHL roster freeze has lifted, and with the March 6 trade deadline looming, the excitement is palpable. The next two weeks promise a flurry of activity as teams scramble to make moves. Let’s dive into some of the key storylines.
Stamkos Staying Put?
Steven Stamkos is making waves in Nashville, not just with his impressive 39 points in the last 24 games, but also with his stance on the trade rumors swirling around him. Despite the Predators sitting just four points shy of a wild-card spot, Stamkos seems unfazed by the approaching deadline.
With a full no-move clause in his contract, he holds the cards. Unless Nashville's management makes a direct request, Stamkos is focused on winning right where he is.
Kings Targeting Thomas
The Los Angeles Kings are making bold moves following Kevin Fiala's season-ending injury at the Olympics. With newfound cap space and a need to fill a gap in their top six, the Kings have their sights set on Robert Thomas from the St.
Louis Blues. Although Thomas has a hefty contract and a no-trade clause, the Blues' struggles could make this a possibility.
The asking price is steep, involving a first-round pick and a top prospect, but if the Kings want a successor to Anze Kopitar, this could be the deal to watch.
The Logan Stanley Sweepstakes
In Winnipeg, Logan Stanley is attracting significant attention. The towering 6-foot-7 defenseman is a pending UFA and has recently showcased his scoring prowess.
Despite his desire to stay with the Jets, Winnipeg's need to gather assets might lead to a trade. Stanley's size and skill make him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their playoff roster, setting the stage for a potential bidding war.
Ristolainen’s Rising Value
Rasmus Ristolainen's standout performance for Team Finland in Milan has boosted his trade value significantly. With a plus-9 rating, he's proven his ability to handle top-four minutes against elite competition.
The Philadelphia Flyers are fielding interest from several teams, including the Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers. With one year left on his $5.1 million deal, Ristolainen is more than a rental, and the Flyers might retain some salary to maximize their return.
His Olympic showing could ensure they get a substantial offer.
As the trade deadline approaches, these narratives are just a glimpse into the potential moves that could reshape the NHL landscape. Keep an eye on these developments as teams strategize for the final push of the season.