NHL Trade Buzz: DeBrusk, Red Wings, and Predators in the Spotlight
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, teams are making strategic moves, and a few names are generating significant buzz. Among them is Jake DeBrusk, a forward with the Vancouver Canucks, who might be on the move.
DeBrusk, with five years remaining on his contract at a $5.5 million cap hit and a full no-move clause, is reportedly open to a change of scenery. The Boston Bruins, Seattle Kraken, and Detroit Red Wings have shown interest, but what the Canucks might seek in return remains a mystery.
Red Wings Eyeing Defensive Reinforcements
The Detroit Red Wings are actively searching for a top-four defenseman, preferably right-handed, to bolster their lineup. With ample salary cap space, they were previously interested in Rasmus Andersson before his trade to Vegas and are now linked to Rasmus Ristolainen of the Philadelphia Flyers.
Additionally, the Red Wings have expressed interest in St. Louis Blues forward Robert Thomas, who carries a substantial $8.236 million cap hit and a full no-trade clause.
Predators Considering Moves Despite Playoff Position
Despite being just four points shy of a playoff spot, the Nashville Predators might still make some trades. While attention has primarily been on Steven Stamkos and Ryan O’Reilly, Erik Haula and Jonathan Marchessault are also attracting interest.
Haula, a 34-year-old pending UFA with a $3.15 million cap hit, has a six-team no-trade list. Marchessault, 35, has three years left on his contract with a $5.5 million cap hit and a no-movement clause, but he may waive it for the right opportunity.
The New Jersey Devils and Los Angeles Kings have been linked to Marchessault in the past.
Other Predators players on expiring contracts include forwards Michael Bunting, Cole Smith, Tyson Jost, Michael McCarron, and defenseman Nick Blankenburg. Bunting and McCarron, in particular, have drawn interest from multiple teams.
As the deadline nears, the landscape of the NHL could shift dramatically, with teams weighing their options and the potential impact of each move on their playoff aspirations.