Calle Järnkrok’s time in Toronto looks like it’s winding down, and with the NHL trade deadline fast approaching, the veteran forward is emerging as a likely trade chip for Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving.
Järnkrok, now 34 and in the final year of his deal, has struggled to find consistent footing in the Leafs’ lineup this season. With just seven points (six goals, one assist) through 37 games, his production hasn’t matched his price tag-a $2.1 million cap hit-and he holds a 10-team no-trade clause. That said, there’s still value in what he brings to the table: a responsible, versatile forward with playoff experience and a solid two-way game.
If Toronto is looking to maximize return, retaining up to 50% of his salary could help sweeten the pot. That would open the door for a mid-round pick or a mid-tier prospect in return-either as a standalone deal or part of a larger package. Järnkrok’s contract could also serve as a useful balancing piece in a bigger trade, especially for cap-strapped contenders.
So where might he land? Here are five teams that make a lot of sense as potential destinations:
New Jersey Devils
There’s a familiar face behind the bench in Jersey-Sheldon Keefe, who coached Järnkrok in Toronto and was a big fan of his work ethic and defensive responsibility. The Devils recently added Nick Bjugstad and are clearly open for business as the deadline nears. While they’re outside the playoff picture right now, they’ve shown a willingness to invest in veterans who can support their young core.
Järnkrok could be a fit in their bottom six, providing a steady presence and some penalty-killing help. If a bigger trade involving Dougie Hamilton and Toronto comes together, Järnkrok could be included to help balance the books. It’s a move that would reunite him with a coach who knows how to get the best out of him, and it gives New Jersey a low-risk depth piece for the stretch run.
Detroit Red Wings
Don’t expect Steve Yzerman to sit quietly this year. After making no moves at last year’s deadline-and catching some public heat from captain Dylan Larkin-Yzerman has the Red Wings in a playoff spot and looking to bolster their depth.
Järnkrok’s versatility is a real asset here. He can play all three forward positions, kill penalties, and bring a veteran presence to a young Detroit lineup. He’s logged over 100 career playoff games, and while his speed has dipped a bit this season, he still brings a high compete level and hockey IQ that fits well in a third- or fourth-line role.
The Red Wings have the cap space to absorb his contract without issue, and if they’re eyeing a package deal for a defenseman-maybe someone like Oliver Ekman-Larsson-Järnkrok could be part of that equation. And here’s a fun twist: he was originally drafted by Detroit back in 2010. A homecoming wouldn’t be out of the question.
Seattle Kraken
Järnkrok’s no stranger to Seattle-he spent part of the 2021-22 season with the Kraken, tallying 12 goals and 26 points in 49 games. With Seattle currently sitting third in the Pacific Division, they’re in the thick of the playoff race and looking to shore up their bottom six.
The Kraken were reportedly in on Artemi Panarin before he re-signed, so it’s clear they’re looking to make moves. Järnkrok might not be a headline-grabber, but he’s a smart, reliable forward who understands his role and plays it well. That’s exactly what Seattle needs heading into the postseason: dependable depth that knows how to handle playoff hockey.
He’d slide in nicely on the third or fourth line, help on the PK, and bring a calm, veteran presence to a team that’s still building its playoff identity.
Edmonton Oilers
It’s not a trade deadline without the Oilers being linked to half the league’s available forwards, and Järnkrok is no exception. While a lot of the chatter has centered around Bobby McMann, Järnkrok could be a more realistic fit given his experience and role flexibility.
The Oilers don’t have a ton of cap space-just under $3 million AAV-so any deal would likely require Toronto to eat some salary. But Edmonton has a history of bringing in gritty, defensive-minded forwards to round out their lineup, and Järnkrok could fill a role similar to what Connor Brown has done in recent playoff runs: checking line minutes, penalty killing, and the occasional timely goal.
With limited draft capital, the Oilers might be more inclined to move a prospect to get a deal done. Järnkrok’s playoff pedigree and ability to play in high-pressure situations make him a logical target for a team with Stanley Cup aspirations.
Nashville Predators
This one would be a full-circle moment. Järnkrok spent eight seasons in Nashville, and a reunion could make a lot of sense for a Predators team that’s quietly climbing back into the Western Conference playoff mix.
GM Barry Trotz is in the process of stepping away, and the team is in a bit of a transition phase. That makes Järnkrok a perfect fit-low risk, potentially solid reward.
He knows the system, the city, and the expectations. That familiarity could help him hit the ground running, which is no small thing when you’re trying to make a playoff push.
He wouldn’t be asked to do too much-just play his game, help on special teams, and provide a steady presence in a lineup that’s still finding its identity.
Wherever he ends up, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Järnkrok’s days in Toronto are numbered. He’s a pending UFA, and with the Leafs expected to be both buyers and sellers, moving out a 34-year-old depth forward on an expiring deal feels like a logical move.
He won’t be the headline of deadline day, but don’t be surprised if Järnkrok ends up being a sneaky-good addition for a team looking to round out its roster with a battle-tested, team-first veteran.