NHL Trade Deadline 2017: End Time, Latest Rumors and Predictions

Time is running out for contenders to upgrade their rosters before the NHL trade deadline, set for 3 p.m. ET Wednesday.

Teams around the league have been aggressive over the past week, with players like Kevin Shattenkirk, Martin Hanzal and recently Johnny Oduya already on the move. Those who have been quiet will now have to make some deals simply to keep up in the arms race.

Here are some players who could be dealt based on the latest buzz around the league.

Matt Duchene, Colorado Avalanche

The trade deadline is hard on players, and Matt Duchene is feeling that as much as anyone.

"It's hard," he said Tuesday, per Mike Chambers of the Denver Post. "It's just so unpredictable. I think tomorrow, I'll be relieved either way. I'm just ready for this to be over and I can move on with my life. I don't think I expect too much to happen, but you never know."

He could end up staying where he is based simply on the asking price from Colorado.

According to Bob McKenzie of TSN, the team is hoping for "three or four high-end pieces" including a young defenseman ready to play.

However, the New York Islanders are noted as a possibility, which makes a lot of sense. Arthur Staple of Newsday noted this a week ago, calling him "the player the Isles covet most."

The Islanders aren't much of a contender this season, but Duchene could be a long-term addition who helps the team going forward. The 26-year-old has proven himself as a playmaker in the past and could be a huge addition to help John Tavares offensively.

Even with a high price tag, New York should do what it can to get it done.

Prediction: Trade to Islanders

Thomas Vanek, Detroit Red Wings

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The Detroit Red Wings weren't afraid to play Thomas Vanek Tuesday night as opposed to scratching him to ensure he stays healthy. While some could take it as a sign he will stay with his team, the odds don't remain in his favor.

John Buccigross of ESPN reported there were two or three teams interested in the veteran.

Considering the Detroit Red Wings are in last place in the Atlantic and Vanek is set to be a free agent, it would be a mistake to not take advantage of a potential trade to bring back some assets.

One of the most intriguing teams involved in the sweepstakes is the Montreal Canadiens. The squad is in first place in the same division but has been struggling as of late, especially offensively. There are playmakers on the roster, but a creative winger who can find teammates would be a huge plus.

Vanek might be 33 years old, but he has had a strong season for an otherwise struggling team. His experience will also be extremely useful for a squad hoping to make a deep run in the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Brendan Savage of MLive.com noted the odds of landing Vanek are in the Canadiens' favor, and it makes too much sense not to happen.

Prediction: Trade to Canadiens

Jaroslav Halak, New York Islanders

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Although he might not be considered as much of an impact player as others on the market, Jaroslav Halak could still be traded before the deadline.

Craig Custance of ESPN noted the Edmonton Oilers are among the teams interested in the goalie, with the Calgary Flames and Boston Bruins also possibilities.

What makes this interesting is the fact Halak hasn't played in the NHL since December. The former Jennings Trophy winner had two great seasons with the Islanders but struggled mightily at the start of this year with a 3.23 goals against average in 21 games.

The 31-year-old has had some success with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers in the AHL, but any interested team will likely hope his play at the start of the year was a fluke.

Meanwhile, the greater risk is the cost as Halak comes with a $4.5 million cap hit, per Hockey Reference.

Although the Islanders would likely be willing to eat some of the salary in order to facilitate a trade, it might be too difficult to pull this one off.

Prediction: No trade