Active NHL Trade Deadline Awaits

The 2010 trade deadline is sure to be an active one. Many names will be on the move, as teams try to gear themselves for playoff runs. With this season's parity in the NHL many teams will be buyers, but the key to the deadline will be the sellers.

Teams like the Edmonton Oilers, Carolina Hurricanes and Florida Panthers will dictate what types of moves are made. Players like Ray Whitney, Keith Tkachuk, Dustin Penner and Tomas Vokoun will be sought after, by contending teams. These four players may be the most tradeable pieces, at this year's deadline.

Ray Whitney can fit well with a young, speedy team trying to add experience. I could see him landing in the laps of the Los Angeles Kings, or even the Washington Capitals. Whitney's experience and point production will add depth to any offense.

Keith Tkachuk's ability to get in front of the opponent's net, and score garbage goals will make him a hot commodity for any team's powerplay. His leadership, and toughness will only help a team trying to nab him. I could possibly see Tkachuk winding up on the Phoenix Coyotes, or even the Montreal Canadiens, both are teams with little scoring depth, and size.

Dustin Penner will be tough to move at the deadline, but I believe many teams will be clamoring for his size, and scoring touch. Penner's size can benefit any powerplay struggling to put bodies in front of the net. Teams that would greatly benefit from Penner's talents could be the Buffalo Sabres, or the New York Rangers, but both teams must be prepared to take on a big contract, and to give up future assets.

Tomas Vokoun will be the most sought after player at the deadline, in my opinion. The Panthers have not said that they will trade him, but when asked Vokoun said he would waive his no trade clause, if the right situation came up. It would be smart of teams like the Philadelphia Flyers, the Chicago Blackhawks or the Washingon Capitals to consider bringing him in.

The trade dealine is quickly approaching, and teams have already began negotiations on possible trades, let the frenzy begin.