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Calgary Flames defensemen Noah Hanifin (left) and Chris Tanev help goaltender Jacob Markstrom defend against New York Islanders forward Kyle Palmieri.
Calgary Flames defensemen Noah Hanifin (left) and Chris Tanev help goaltender Jacob Markstrom defend against New York Islanders forward Kyle Palmieri. Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

Updated NHL Trade Block Big Board 3 Weeks from the Trade Deadline

Lyle RichardsonFeb 16, 2024

The Vancouver Canucks acquiring Elias Lindholm on Jan. 31 followed by the Winnipeg Jets landing Sean Monahan two days later seemed to signal the start of a busy period of player movement leading up to the March 8 trade deadline.

However, the trade market has gone quiet since the Monahan deal. On Feb. 10, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported activity in the market was being held up as teams wait to find out what happens with Calgary Flames defensemen Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin, Pittsburgh Penguins winger Jake Guentzel and Anaheim Ducks forward Adam Henrique.

Those four players, by the way, featured prominently in our last two NHL Trade Block Big Boards. They're also part of our updated board.

One reason teams are awaiting the fates of those four could be that the clubs interested in those players are trying to accrue sufficient salary-cap space. Another could be the high asking prices set by their current teams.

As the Lindholm and Monahan trades demonstrate, at some point a team will be keen enough to make a move for one of the best available players on the market. As the deadline approaches, the wheels will soon be in motion for more activity leading up to March 8.

We've listed the top 20 players we consider most likely to be moved based on skill, experience, contract status, and the frequency of their appearances in recent media trade rumors. There is a short list of honorable mentions as well.

Do you agree or disagree with our listing? Is there someone more deserving you believe belongs here? Let us know in the app comments below.

Honorable Mention

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Washington Capitals winger Max Pacioretty.
Washington Capitals winger Max Pacioretty.

Tyson Barrie, Nashville Predators

As we noted in our previous two NHL Trade Block Big Boards, Barrie requested a trade in December. Recently returned from an upper-body injury, he's seen limited playing time, which will hurt his trade value.


Kaapo Kakko, New York Rangers

Kakko was among the top 20 on our previous two trade boards amid rumors the Rangers were taking calls about his availability. Since then, however, the speculation about the 23-year-old winger appears to have subsided.


Arthur Kaliyev, Los Angeles Kings

Kaliyev appeared on our previous two trade boards amid speculation he could become a trade candidate. That chatter, however, seems to have died away since their coaching change on Feb. 2.


Anthony Mantha, Washington Capitals

Moving up from an honorable mention in our initial February trade board to No. 16 on our follow-up, Mantha's stock has slipped over the past week. On Feb. 9, The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun speculated his $5.7 million cap hit makes him difficult to move even if the Capitals were to retain half of it.


Victor Olofsson, Buffalo Sabres

Mired near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, the Buffalo Sabres will likely become sellers soon. The Buffalo News Lance Lysowski believes moving Olofsson could be tricky given the decline in his production, his limited playing time and his $4.8 million cap hit.


Max Pacioretty, Washington Capitals

On Feb. 9, The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun suggested the Capitals might move some of their pending UFAs such as the 35-year-old Pacioretty. He carries a full no-movement clause but might waive it for a chance to play for the Stanley Cup.


Nick Seeler, Philadelphia Flyers

A fixture on our Trade Block Big Boards this season, it was believed the Flyers were listening to trade offers on Seeler. However, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman predicted on Feb. 7 that they could re-sign the 30-year-old defenseman.


Daniel Sprong, Detroit Red Wings

On Feb. 8, TSN's Pierre LeBrun speculated Sprong could get shopped if the Red Wings fall out of playoff contention. Eligible for UFA status on July 1, he's fourth among their leading scorers with 14 goals and 34 points in 52 games.

20. Casey Mittelstadt, Buffalo Sabres

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BUFFALO, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 10: Casey Mittelstadt #37 of the Buffalo Sabres greets fans as he heads to the ice prior to an NHL game against the St. Louis Blues on February 10, 2024 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images)
BUFFALO, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 10: Casey Mittelstadt #37 of the Buffalo Sabres greets fans as he heads to the ice prior to an NHL game against the St. Louis Blues on February 10, 2024 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images)

We had Casey Mittelstadt sitting at No. 19 on our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board. Recent speculation suggesting the Buffalo Sabres could part ways with the versatile 25-year-old forward keeps him in a similar spot.

On the Feb. 9 episode of the After The Whistle podcast, Andrew Peters said a "very reliable source" informed him that the Sabres were "shopping Mittelstadt hard" for a goaltender. He added that the Sabres didn't want to sign Mittelstadt because they already have several players on long-term contracts.

The following day, Lance Lysowski of the Buffalo News tweeted that the Sabres were listening when teams called but they weren't shopping Mittelstadt. He's in the final year of his contract with an annual average value of $2.5 million. He's scheduled to become a restricted free agent with arbitration rights on July 1 and will likely seek a long-term deal.

During a Feb. 13 appearance on Buffalo's WGR 550's Schopp and the Bulldog, Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams denied Mittelstadt's availability in the trade market, adding he hoped to re-sign the young forward. Whether this serves to keep Mittelstadt's name out of the rumor mill remains to be seen.

19. Joel Edmundson, Washington Capitals

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SUNRISE, FL - FEBRUARY 8: Joel Edmundson #6 of the Washington Capitals skates with the puck against the Florida Panthers at the Amerant Bank Arena on February 8, 2024 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images)
SUNRISE, FL - FEBRUARY 8: Joel Edmundson #6 of the Washington Capitals skates with the puck against the Florida Panthers at the Amerant Bank Arena on February 8, 2024 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images)

No stranger to trade deadline trade rumors, defenseman Joel Edmundson was featured in our NHL Trade Block Big Board last February but remained with the Montreal Canadiens. On July 1, the Canadiens shipped him to the Washington Capitals and retained half of his $3.5 million cap hit.

With another trade deadline approaching, the 30-year-old Edmundson has surfaced once again in the rumor mill. On Feb. 7, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported the Capitals were looking to move him.

The 6'5", 221-pound Edmundson has been frequently sidelined by injuries throughout his nine NHL seasons. When healthy, however, he's proved himself as a physical shutdown defenseman, especially in the playoffs. He helped the St. Louis Blues win the Stanley Cup in 2019 and an underdog Montreal Canadiens squad reach the 2021 Cup Final.

His size, defensive skills and playoff experience could prove enticing to clubs seeking affordable, physical depth for their blue line. That earns Edmundson a spot among our top 20 on this Trade Block Big Board.

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18. Kaapo Kähkönen, San Jose Sharks

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 22: Kaapo Kahkonen #36 of the San Jose Sharks clears the puck during the second period against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena on January 22, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 22: Kaapo Kahkonen #36 of the San Jose Sharks clears the puck during the second period against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena on January 22, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

With the rebuilding San Jose Sharks expected to become sellers once again at the trade deadline, Kaapo Kähkönen remains a notable trade candidate. He was among the top 20 on our last two NHL Trade Block Big Boards, though he has been dropping down our listings over the past two weeks.

With an affordable $2.8 million cap hit for this season, the 27-year-old Kähkönen is slated to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. He might not fit into the Sharks' long-range plans, making him a potential trade target for clubs in need of depth between the pipes.

The Athletic's Eric Stephens included Kähkönen on his list of players the Sharks could attempt to move before March 8. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman cited his solid underlying numbers this season but indicated some teams are concerned about his lack of a playoff resume.

Kähkönen could become an option for clubs that fail to land more noteworthy goalies on our list. A chance to play for a contender could allow him to prove himself in postseason competition. In turn, that will help his chances of landing a multiyear contract in this summer's free-agent market.

17. Marc-André Fleury, Minnesota Wild

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SAINT PAUL, MN - FEBRUARY 09: Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) looks on during the second period of the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Minnesota Wild on February 9th, 2024, at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN. (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
SAINT PAUL, MN - FEBRUARY 09: Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) looks on during the second period of the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Minnesota Wild on February 9th, 2024, at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN. (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

We had goaltender Marc-André Fleury among our honorable mentions in our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board. At the time, we noted Minnesota Wild general manager Bill Guerin said in mid-January that his club wasn't giving up on reaching the playoffs and he hadn't spoken to the 39-year-old Fleury about waiving his no-movement clause.

Nearly a month later, however, the Wild are gaining ground in the playoff race. Nevertheless, speculation persists over Fleury's plans for the remainder of this season. With his career winding down, there's a belief he might want one last shot at earning a fourth Stanley Cup ring before retiring.

On Feb. 7, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported Fleury could have the biggest impact among goalies in the trade market. Friedman noted that the future Hall of Famer wasn't happy to be traded from Vegas to Chicago and needed convincing to go to Minnesota but adapted once he did.

Friedman suggested the Carolina Hurricanes, Colorado Avalanche and Edmonton Oilers as possible destinations but noted he might not be a starter in some cases. Ultimately, it's Fleury's decision, and until he says otherwise, he'll remain on our Trade Block Big Board.

16. David Perron, Detroit Red Wings

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DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 23: David Perron #57 of the Detroit Red Wings celebrates his first period goal with teammates while playing the Dallas Stars at Little Caesars Arena on January 23, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 23: David Perron #57 of the Detroit Red Wings celebrates his first period goal with teammates while playing the Dallas Stars at Little Caesars Arena on January 23, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Jockeying for one of the final wild-card berths in the Eastern Conference, the Detroit Red Wings are attempting to make their first playoff appearance since 2015-16. Nevertheless, there's speculation over whether David Perron might be available if they fall out of contention.

Perron, 35, is due to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. He's earning a cap hit of $4.8 million this season. A creative offensive forward who can skate on either wing, he exceeded 40 points in 12 of his first 16 NHL seasons. Perron also has a reputation for rising to the occasion in the playoffs. In 2019, he helped the St. Louis Blues win the Stanley Cup.

On Feb. 8, TSN's Pierre LeBrun mentioned Perron among the possibilities for the Edmonton Oilers in their search for a top-six forward. Two days later, Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal tweeted that Oilers general manager Ken Holland has liked Perron for a long time. However, Matheson felt the Wings would have to retain part of the winger's salary.

The recent speculation about Perron is enough for him to earn a place among the top 20 on our updated Trade Block Big Board. However, it seems unlikely the Wings will part with him while they're still in the playoff race unless it's to get a better player in return.

15. Alexandre Carrier, Nashville Predators

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NASHVILLE, TN - FEBRUARY 10: Nashville Predators defenseman Alexandre Carrier (45) is shown during the NHL game between the Nashville Predators and Arizona Coyotes, held on February 10, 2024, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.  (Photo by Danny Murphy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN - FEBRUARY 10: Nashville Predators defenseman Alexandre Carrier (45) is shown during the NHL game between the Nashville Predators and Arizona Coyotes, held on February 10, 2024, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Danny Murphy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

On Feb. 6, Nashville Hockey Now's Michael Gallagher observed that Alexandre Carrier had surfaced in the rumor mill. He cited Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman suggesting he could be a trade target for the Edmonton Oilers while The Athletic's Thomas Drance mentioned him as an option for the Vancouver Canucks.

Gallagher noted that both cap-strapped clubs need an affordable puck-moving right-shot defenseman. Carrier, 27, is on a one-year contract with a cap hit of $2.5 million. He also lacks a no-trade clause.

Carrier is also eligible for unrestricted free agent status on July 1. That could make him a trade candidate if the Predators become sellers, though that seems unlikely while they're jockeying for a wild-card spot in the Western Conference.

Should the Predators lose ground in the playoff chase, Carrier could become a viable trade candidate. That makes him a player worth watching in the trade market leading up to March 8, earning him a spot among the top 20 on our updated Trade Block Big Board.

14. Ivan Provorov, Columbus Blues Jackets

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COLUMBUS, OHIO - OCTOBER 02: Ivan Provorov #9 of the Columbus Blue Jackets skates during the first period against the St. Louis Blues at Nationwide Arena on October 02, 2023 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Mowry/Getty Images)
COLUMBUS, OHIO - OCTOBER 02: Ivan Provorov #9 of the Columbus Blue Jackets skates during the first period against the St. Louis Blues at Nationwide Arena on October 02, 2023 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Mowry/Getty Images)

Debuting at No. 15 on our first February NHL Trade Block Big Board, Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Ivan Provorov slipped to honorable mention status in our previous board. At that time, there seemed little indication that the 27-year-old blueliner would become a trade candidate.

Provorov regains a spot among the top 20 on this board following a Feb. 8 report by The Athletic's Aaron Portzline regarding the Blue Jackets' potential plans for the approaching trade deadline. He suggested the 6'1", 220-pound defenseman could be on the move by March 8.

Portzline noted that Provorov has played well for the struggling Jackets this season with 23 points in 52 games. However, he believes they'll have to move out a player or two to make room on their crowded blue line. Promising defenseman David Jiříček is expected to be a roster regular next year while prospect Denton Mateychuk could also be ready to make the jump by then.

Provorov is signed through next season with an average annual value of $6.8 million, but the Blue Jackets only carry $4.8 million as the Los Angeles Kings retain the rest. He could prove enticing for contenders seeking a big-bodied puck-moving rearguard. It will be interesting to see if the Blue Jackets' management change affects Provorov's availability.

13. Anthony Duclair, San Jose Sharks

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 22: Anthony Duclair #10 of the San Jose Sharks stickhandles against the Los Angeles Kings during a 4-3 Sharks win at Crypto.com Arena on January 22, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 22: Anthony Duclair #10 of the San Jose Sharks stickhandles against the Los Angeles Kings during a 4-3 Sharks win at Crypto.com Arena on January 22, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Anthony Duclair was among the honorable mentions in our initial February NHL Trade Block Big Board. However, the San Jose Sharks winger slipped off our previous update as there was a lack of media trade chatter regarding the former 30-goal scorer.

With the rebuilding Sharks expected to be sellers at the deadline, Duclair has resurfaced in the rumor mill. On Feb. 7, The Hockey News' Julian Gaudio cited The Fourth Period linking the 28-year-old winger to the Vegas Golden Knights. Two days later, NBC Sports Boston's Nick Goss included him among his list of trade targets for the Bruins.

Duclair's production is down this season with the lowly Sharks, but he tallied a career-high 31 goals with the Florida Panthers in 2021-22 and was productive during their run to the 2023 Stanley Cup Final. He could rediscover his scoring touch on a deeper roster.

Eligible to become an unrestricted free agent in July, Duclair carries a $3 million cap hit. However, the Sharks could retain part of it for the right offer.

12. Jordan Eberle, Seattle Kraken

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NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 12: Seattle Kraken right wing Jordan Eberle (7) looks on during a game between the Seattle Kraken and New Jersey Devils on February 12, 2024 at Prudential Center in the Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 12: Seattle Kraken right wing Jordan Eberle (7) looks on during a game between the Seattle Kraken and New Jersey Devils on February 12, 2024 at Prudential Center in the Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Chosen by the Seattle Kraken in their 2021 expansion draft, Jordan Eberle played a key role in the club's early years. He finished third in scoring in each of their first two seasons and was second among their postseason scorers (11 points) as they upset the defending champion Colorado Avalanche before falling to the Dallas Stars in the second round in seven games.

With the Kraken struggling this season to remain in the playoff race, they could become sellers at the trade deadline. Eberle could be among their notable trade chips. He's slated to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 and carries a salary of $5.5 million plus a 16-team no-trade clause.

The Kraken could be willing to retain up to half of Eberle's salary for the right offer. His no-trade clause could be an obstacle, but he might be open to joining a playoff contender. The Fourth Period's Dave Pagnotta wrote there are multiple interested teams in Eberle and teammate Alex Wennberg. TSN's Pierre LeBrun believes the Edmonton Oilers could be a suitor.

Eberle began his NHL career with the Oilers and spent seven seasons with them. The 33-year-old winger could be open to a return to Edmonton. His experience, leadership and clutch scoring could make him a valuable addition to any playoff contender.

11. Nic Dowd, Washington Capitals

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WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 13: Nic Dowd #26 of the Washington Capitals chases a loose puck during a game against the Colorado Avalanche at Capital One Arena on February 13, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by John McCreary/NHLI via Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 13: Nic Dowd #26 of the Washington Capitals chases a loose puck during a game against the Colorado Avalanche at Capital One Arena on February 13, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by John McCreary/NHLI via Getty Images)

A hard-working checking-line center carrying an affordable $1.3 million average annual value through 2024-25, Nic Dowd of the Washington Capitals debuted at No. 6 on our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board.

Dowd garnered that spot based on his name appearing in a growing amount of media trade chatter earlier this month. That seems to have died down somewhat over the past week, which sends him dropping in our updated listing.

That doesn't mean Dowd is no longer a player of interest in the trade market. On Feb. 8, Boston Hockey Now's Jimmy Murphy cited former NHL analyst Pierre McGuire singing the 33-year-old forward's praises as an underappreciated player who could be a good fit with the Boston Bruins or New York Rangers.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman included Dowd among several centers who could be available before the trade deadline. However, he thinks the Capitals could hold onto him.

10. Jake Allen, Montreal Canadiens

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MONTREAL, QC - FEBRUARY 11: Montreal Canadiens goalie Jake Allen (34) makes a save during the St. Louis Blues versus the Montreal Canadiens game on February 11, 2024, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
MONTREAL, QC - FEBRUARY 11: Montreal Canadiens goalie Jake Allen (34) makes a save during the St. Louis Blues versus the Montreal Canadiens game on February 11, 2024, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

For most of this season, the Montreal Canadiens' Jake Allen seemed the most likely goaltender to be moved in the trade market, sitting at No. 4 on our previous Trade Block Big Board. The 34-year-old appeared to be the odd man out with the Canadiens sticking with Sam Montembeault as their starter with promising Cayden Primeau as his likely backup.

On Feb. 7, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman noted that Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes could retain all three of his goalies for the rest of this season. He stated that Hughes has set a price for Allen with a draft pick being the key part but that would depend on the Canadiens retaining part of his $3.9 million annual average value through 2024-25.

The following day, TSN's Martin Biron suggested the Colorado Avalanche could use Allen as a backup. He pointed out that Avalanche starter Alexandar Georgiev has played a lot of minutes this season and could use someone reliable to occasionally give him a break.

Biron believes Allen's contract would work for the Avalanche as they also lack a backup goalie for next season. He suggested the Canadiens could retain part of his cap hit. Based on Friedman's comments, however, that would depend on the Avs meeting Hughes' asking price.

9. Scott Laughton, Philadelphia Flyers

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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - FEBRUARY 10: Scott Laughton #21 of the Philadelphia Flyers looks on against the Seattle Kraken at the Wells Fargo Center on February 10, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Flyers defeated the Kraken 3-2. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - FEBRUARY 10: Scott Laughton #21 of the Philadelphia Flyers looks on against the Seattle Kraken at the Wells Fargo Center on February 10, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Flyers defeated the Kraken 3-2. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

In his debut on our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board, Philadelphia Flyers center Scott Laughton checked in at No. 9. Rumors persist that the 29-year-old two-way forward could be on the move by the March 8 trade deadline.

On Feb. 8, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman noted that Laughton's playing time this season is down from last season. He believes it might be best for both sides if he were moved. He reiterated that view the following day on his 32 Thoughts podcast, suggesting Laughton could be shipped out by the trade deadline or during the offseason.

That's because Laughton, unlike many on our board, is not due to become a free agent on July 1. He's signed through 2025-26 with an annual average value of $3 million.

The Flyers can afford to be patient regarding trade offers for Laughton. If they don't get anything they like by March 8, they can wait until the offseason and see if his value has improved by that point.

8. Erik Johnson, Buffalo Sabres

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BUFFALO, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 27: Erik Johnson #6 of the Buffalo Sabres shoots the puck during an NHL game against the Boston Bruins on December 27, 2023 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images)
BUFFALO, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 27: Erik Johnson #6 of the Buffalo Sabres shoots the puck during an NHL game against the Boston Bruins on December 27, 2023 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images)

Trade rumors involving the Buffalo Sabres are growing as they flounder near the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Erik Johnson's name has been bandied about, earning the 35-year-old defenseman the No. 13 spot on our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board.

At the time, we noted that TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported the Sabres hadn't committed to trading Johnson and would speak with the blueliner and his agent about it. On Feb. 9, Johnson told Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News that he didn't want to leave as it would feel like he was abandoning his teammates at midseason.

Johnson, however, lacks a no-trade clause on his one-year contract. If the Sabres were to retain up to half of his $3.3 million cap hit, he could fetch them a decent return from a contender in need of his penalty-killing skills.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman believes Johnson will be moved as he'd be a "no-brainer" trade target for a contender. Sabres management can send him wherever they want but they could give him the choice of destinations.

7. Sean Walker, Philadelphia Flyers

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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - FEBRUARY 10: Sean Walker #26 of the Philadelphia Flyers looks on against the Seattle Kraken at the Wells Fargo Center on February 10, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Flyers defeated the Kraken 3-2. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - FEBRUARY 10: Sean Walker #26 of the Philadelphia Flyers looks on against the Seattle Kraken at the Wells Fargo Center on February 10, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Flyers defeated the Kraken 3-2. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

Ranked at No. 5 on each of our previous two NHL Trade Block Big Boards, the Philadelphia Flyers' Sean Walker is believed to be among the players most likely to move by deadline day. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman suggested the acquisition of right-shot defenseman Jamie Drysdale last month could mean the 30-year-old Walker is on his last days in Philadelphia.

Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli reported the Flyers sought a first-rounder for Walker. On Feb. 8, TSN's Darren Dreger said the Flyers blueliner was among the defense options being considered by the Edmonton Oilers. Two days later, Philly Hockey Now's Jonathan Bailey suggested the Flyers include Walker in a deal for Buffalo Sabres center Casey Mittelstadt.

The Flyers, however, might have other plans for Walker. During the Feb. 9 32 Thoughts podcast, Elliotte Friedman said they could consider re-signing the blueliner. He's slated to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 and carries a cap hit of $2.7 million.

On Feb. 13, The Athletic's Kevin Kurz reported Flyers head coach John Tortorella said his club wasn't shopping Walker but added, "We'd be dopes if we didn't listen." He felt they would move the blueliner if it made sense for the future of the organization.

6. Vladimir Tarasenko, Ottawa Senators

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OTTAWA, ON - FEBRUARY 13: Ottawa Senators Right Wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) before a face-off during second period National Hockey League action between the Columbus Blue Jackets and Ottawa Senators on February 13, 2024, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada. (Photo by Richard A. Whittaker/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
OTTAWA, ON - FEBRUARY 13: Ottawa Senators Right Wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) before a face-off during second period National Hockey League action between the Columbus Blue Jackets and Ottawa Senators on February 13, 2024, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada. (Photo by Richard A. Whittaker/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The Ottawa Senators have been improving under interim head coach Jacques Martin. Nevertheless, they'll need a winning run for the ages to reach the playoffs. That's kept winger Vladimir Tarasenko among the players most likely to be moved by the March 8 trade deadline.

On Feb. 6, The Athletic's Fluto Shinzawa suggested the 32-year-old Tarasenko among the more affordable trade options for the Boston Bruins if they wish to add a scoring winger. Two days later, TSN's Pierre LeBrun mentioned him as a possible trade target for the Oilers.

Tarasenko carries a salary of $5 million for this season and a full no-trade clause, but he could waive it to join a contender. On Feb. 12, the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch reported that Tarasenko hadn't ruled out re-signing with the Senators but wouldn't say if he's spoken to management about it.

We had Tarasenko at No. 7 on our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board and he remains among our top 10 on this update. The Senators could make things easier for teams like the Bruins and Oilers by retaining part of his salary, but that will likely drive up their asking price.

5. Noah Hanifin, Calgary Flames

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NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 08: Noah Hanifin #55 of the Calgary Flames warms up prior to the game against the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center on February 8, 2024 in Newark, New Jersey.  (Photo by Rich Graessle/NHLI via Getty Images)
NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 08: Noah Hanifin #55 of the Calgary Flames warms up prior to the game against the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center on February 8, 2024 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Graessle/NHLI via Getty Images)

In our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board, we noted that the Calgary Flames were awaiting word from Noah Hanifin about whether he intends to sign a contract extension. While they wait, the rumor mill keeps churning over the future of the 27-year-old defenseman.

On Feb. 10, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported that Hanifin was among four players currently holding up the trade market. That's because it remains uncertain whether he'll re-sign with the Flames. As a result, he's slipped a bit down our ranking of trade candidates.

Friedman noted the contract extension discussions that have previously taken place between the Flames and Hanifin. However, until he's signed a new deal, teams still consider him to be available.

Hanifin's agents were reportedly expected to meet soon with Flames management. There is no indication that it has happened yet, but it will have to take place soon as the March 8 trade deadline approaches. If he opts not to re-sign, he'll become the top defenseman in the trade market.

4. Jake Guentzel, Pittsburgh Penguins

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SAINT PAUL, MN - FEBRUARY 09: Pittsburgh Penguins left wing Jake Guentzel (59) looks on during the third period of the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Minnesota Wild on February 9th, 2024, at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN. (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
SAINT PAUL, MN - FEBRUARY 09: Pittsburgh Penguins left wing Jake Guentzel (59) looks on during the third period of the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Minnesota Wild on February 9th, 2024, at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN. (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

On Feb. 8, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported the Edmonton Oilers are in the market for a top-six forward leading up to the trade deadline. He mentioned Pittsburgh Penguins winger Jake Guentzel as a "real splashy name," but it's unknown if he's available. Nevertheless, he remains an ongoing subject of media trade speculation.

Guentzel, 29, sat at No. 8 on our previous Trade Block Big Board. He's among the Penguins' leading scorers with 52 points in 50 games. Eligible for unrestricted free-agent status on July 1, he carries a salary of $6 million.

On Feb. 10, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman also reported the Oilers were believed to be eyeing Guentzel. However, he thinks the Penguins aren't in any rush to decide whether to re-sign or trade him. Friedman believes they'll see how the rest of this month plays out.

Two days later, Friedman speculated the Penguins could seek a return comparable to what the Philadelphia Flyers received from the Florida Panthers in 2022 for Claude Giroux. In other words, a first-round pick, a third-rounder and a good young NHL forward. However, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reports they have not yet set an asking price.

Guentzel left Wednesday's 5-2 loss to the Florida Panthers with an upper-body injury. If he ends up sidelined for a significant period, it could bring any trade inquiries to a halt.

3. Chris Tanev, Calgary Flames

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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 12: Calgary Flames Defenseman Chris Tanev (8) skates with the puck during the third period of the National Hockey League game between the Calgary Flames and the New York Rangers on February 12, 2024 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. (Photo by Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 12: Calgary Flames Defenseman Chris Tanev (8) skates with the puck during the third period of the National Hockey League game between the Calgary Flames and the New York Rangers on February 12, 2024 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. (Photo by Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

For the past two weeks, Chris Tanev was the player we considered the most likely to be moved by the March 8 trade deadline. He's slipped a bit in the rankings but is still very much a trade candidate. However, it could take some time before a suitor emerges with a suitable offer to the Calgary Flames for the 34-year-old defenseman.

One reason is the difficulties that some suitors could face in taking on his $4.5 million cap hit or meeting the Flames' asking price. On Feb. 7, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported potential suitors such as the Boston Bruins, Dallas Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning, Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks have limited cap space or tradeable assets.

Some of those clubs could be waiting until the deadline day to accrue sufficient cap space to take on the remainder of Tanev's salary. As for the Flames' asking price, CHEK-TV's Rick Dhaliwal cited Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman saying the Flames want a first-round pick but clubs are offering up second-rounders.

Flames management can afford to be patient as time is still on their side. However, that could change once the calendar flips to March if no one has been willing to meet their price.

2. Adam Henrique, Anaheim Ducks

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MONTREAL, CANADA - FEBRUARY 13:  Adam Henrique #14 of the Anaheim Ducks skates during the third period against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on February 13, 2024 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.  The Montreal Canadiens defeated the Anaheim Ducks 5-0.  (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)
MONTREAL, CANADA - FEBRUARY 13: Adam Henrique #14 of the Anaheim Ducks skates during the third period against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on February 13, 2024 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Montreal Canadiens defeated the Anaheim Ducks 5-0. (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)

Sitting at No. 2 on our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board, Adam Henrique became the most notable center potentially available after Elias Lindholm was traded to Vancouver and Sean Monahan was shipped to Winnipeg. The ongoing need for skilled centers keeps the pending unrestricted free agent in the same position on our updated board.

On Feb. 9, NBC Sports Boston's Nick Goss had Henrique on his list of forwards that he believes the Bruins should pursue before the trade deadline. He noted that the versatile 33-year-old forward could play center or left wing but acknowledged that his $5.8 million cap hit could be difficult for the Bruins to absorb.

The following day, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman included Henrique with the Calgary Flames' Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin and the Pittsburgh Penguins' Jake Guentzel as the four players currently holding up the trade market. On Feb. 13, The Athletic's Eric Stephens listed the Bruins, Colorado Avalanche and New York Rangers as possible destinations.

Henrique also carries a 10-team no-trade clause that could complicate efforts by the Ducks to move him. Their asking price could also explain why he hasn't been moved yet. Stephens believes Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek could seek a first-round pick as part of the return. He could also seek an established young player.

1. Jacob Markström, Calgary Flames

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ELMONT, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 10:  Jacob Markstrom #25 of the Calgary Flames tends net against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on February 10, 2024 in Elmont, New York. (Photo by Steven Ryan/NHLI via Getty Images)
ELMONT, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 10: Jacob Markstrom #25 of the Calgary Flames tends net against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on February 10, 2024 in Elmont, New York. (Photo by Steven Ryan/NHLI via Getty Images)

Debuting on our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board at No. 20, Calgary Flames goaltender Jacob Markström garnered interest in the rumor mill after his friend Elias Lindholm was traded on Jan. 31 to the Vancouver Canucks. That prompted some observers to wonder if he'd waive his no-movement clause if approached by management to do so.

It's believed it would take a significant offer to entice Flames general manager Craig Conroy into asking Markström to waive his clause. During a Feb. 8 interview with Sportsnet's Eric Francis, the 34-year-old netminder said he hasn't asked to be traded nor has management asked him to waive his clause. He's leaving it up to the club to decide what they want to do.

Two days later, Francis' colleague Elliotte Friedman reported hearing that Flames management had discussions with the New Jersey Devils regarding Markström last week. However, those talks got hung up on the Flames' asking price and whether they would retain part of his $6 million annual cap hit through 2025-26.

Friedman didn't know if the Flames approached Markström to discuss the deal. Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli believed it did reach that point, adding that he thinks the goalie had no problem with going to New Jersey. However, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported the Flames didn't ask Markström to waive his no-movement clause.

Those issues mentioned by Friedman could continue to be obstacles on the path toward trading Markström. Nevertheless, the fact that he was close to being moved pushes the netminder into the top spot on our Trade Block Big Board.


Stats (as of Feb. 15, 2024) via NHL.com with salary info and line combinations via Cap Friendly.

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