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NHL Trade Block Big Board 1 Week From the Trade Deadline

Lyle RichardsonMar 1, 2024

With the NHL's March 8 trade deadline only a week away, there's growing anticipation among fans and pundits over which players could be on the move. February had been a quiet month with just three trades, the most recent being the Dallas Stars acquiring Chris Tanev from the Calgary Flames on Feb. 28 in a deal that included the New Jersey Devils.

Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli believes one reason for the quiet market is the limited number of true difference-makers among the trade candidates. In our previous trade block big boards, we noted the high number of teams with limited salary-cap space. Some could be accruing sufficient cap space before adding to their rosters.

We also noted that some teams are waiting to see what happens with a handful of notable players. Those include Calgary Flames defenseman Noah Hanifin and Pittsburgh Penguins winger Jake Guentzel.

Activity in the trade market should increase now that the deadline is in sight. As we've done in our previous Trade Block Big Boards, we're listing 20 players we consider the top trade candidates based on skill, experience, contracts and frequency of appearance in media-generated speculation over the past week. There is also a short list of honorable mentions.

If you agree or disagree with our ranking or believe we've missed a player, let us know about it in our app comments below.

Honorable Mention

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Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-André Fleury
Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-André Fleury

Jake Allen, Montreal Canadiens

A regular fixture in our previous NHL Trade Block Big Boards throughout this season, Allen was dropping down our listings in February. The 33-year-old goaltender could end up traded, but his struggles in net this season seem to have dampened his value in the trade market. He hasn't been mentioned in the rumor mill as often as he once was.


Alexandre Carrier, Nashville Predators

Carrier was ranked 11th on our Feb. 23 Trade Block Big Board. However, he hasn't surfaced as often in the rumor mill over the past week. That could be due to the Predators' recent surge into the final Western Conference wild-card berth.


Jakob Chychrun, Ottawa Senators

The Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch reported on Feb 22 that Chychrun continues to surface in the rumor mill. Five days later, however, TSN's Darren Dreger said it's unlikely they'll move the 25-year-old defenseman, who is signed through next season.


Nic Dowd, Washington Capitals

The limited number of skilled centers in the trade market had Dowd among our top 20 players in our previous two trade block big boards. The 33-year-old Capitals veteran could still be shopped, but the trade rumors about him have quieted for now.


Matt Dumba, Arizona Coyotes

Dumba debuted among our top 20 in our Feb. 23 Trade Block Big Board. The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun reported on Feb. 23 that Dumba would be among several pending free agents that the Coyotes could attempt to move by the deadline.


Marc-André Fleury, Minnesota Wild

A subject of recent trade speculation, Fleury told reporters that he doesn't want to be traded. The feeling is mutual for Wild management as they've closed the door on moving him by the deadline. Barring a last-minute change of heart, he'll finish this season in Minnesota.


Dominik Kubalik, Ottawa Senators

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun reported some teams have "kicked tires" on Kubalik. However, the Senators must retain some of his $2.5 million cap hit to acquire the 28-year-old winger. With just 12 points this season, his low production isn't helping his trade value.


Elvis Merzļikins, Columbus Blue Jackets

Merzļikins resurfaced among our top 20 trade candidates in our Feb. 23 trade board following a report that he'd drawn interest from the New Jersey Devils. Since then, however, there's little indication that he'll be moved by deadline day, partly because of his $5.4 million annual average value through 2026-27.

20. Trevor Zegras, Anaheim Ducks

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ANAHEIM, CA  JANUARY 7:  Trevor Zegras #11 of the Anaheim Ducks skates during the game against the Detroit Red Wings on January 7, 2024 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CA JANUARY 7: Trevor Zegras #11 of the Anaheim Ducks skates during the game against the Detroit Red Wings on January 7, 2024 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images)

Appearing on our Feb. 1 NHL Trade Block Big Board, Anaheim Ducks center Trevor Zegras dropped off our subsequent boards as the trade rumors about the 22-year-old faded. As the March 8 deadline approaches, the media chatter about the young Ducks star has resumed.

Zegras began his NHL career with back-to-back 60-plus point campaigns. This season, however, his contract negotiations kept him out of training camp while injuries limited him to just seven points in 20 games. The Ducks trading Jamie Drysdale to Philadelphia in January prompted some observers to wonder about Zegras' future in Anaheim.

On Feb. 21, Montreal Hockey Now's Marco D'Amico cited TSN's Pierre LeBrun reporting the Ducks were getting inquiries about Zegras. LeBrun said the Montreal Canadiens were among the four or five teams he was told had called the Ducks.

The Athletic's Eric Stephens noted the Ducks aren't under pressure to move Zegras as he's signed through 2025-26 with an average annual value of $5.8 million. However, he pointed out that Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek hasn't quashed the trade rumors. It seems unlikely he'll be moved at the trade deadline but we can't rule it out.

19. Juuse Saros, Nashville Predators

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ST. LOUIS, MO - February 17: Nashville Predators goaltender Juuse Saros (74) makes a glove save during a regular season game between the Nashville Predators and the St. Louis Blues on February 17, 2024, at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis MO (Photo by Rick Ulreich/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
ST. LOUIS, MO - February 17: Nashville Predators goaltender Juuse Saros (74) makes a glove save during a regular season game between the Nashville Predators and the St. Louis Blues on February 17, 2024, at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis MO (Photo by Rick Ulreich/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Juuse Saros jumped to No. 6 on our Feb. 23 NHL Trade Block Big Board after Nashville Predators general manager Barry Trotz confirmed the New Jersey Devils inquired about the 29-year-old goaltender. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman last week indicated some teams felt there was a 50-50 chance Saros would be moved by the trade deadline.

Trotz set a high asking price for Saros believed to be a first-round pick, a top prospect and a good young NHL player. The netminder also has a year remaining on his contract, so Trotz isn't under any pressure to move him by the March 8 trade deadline, especially with the Predators battling for a wild-card berth.

On Feb. 24, Nashville Hockey Now's Michael Gallagher noted that Trotz would like to call up promising goalie Yaroslav Askarov to get him some NHL experience. Given the high asking price for Saros, he speculated it would be backup Kevin Lankinen who gets traded if the Predators GM needs to make room for Askarov.

With the Predators surging in the standings as the deadline approaches, The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun believes Trotz is in a hold or add position. The Predators GM told LeBrun that he expects Saros will finish the season in Nashville as he doesn't anticipate anyone will meet his asking price.

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18. Frank Vatrano, Anaheim Ducks

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LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 24: Anaheim Ducks Left Wing Frank Vatrano (77) during a game between the Anaheim Ducks and the Los Angeles Kings on February 24, 2024 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA.  (Photo by Rob Curtis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 24: Anaheim Ducks Left Wing Frank Vatrano (77) during a game between the Anaheim Ducks and the Los Angeles Kings on February 24, 2024 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Rob Curtis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

One of the honorable mentions on our Feb. 8 NHL Trade Block Big Board, Frank Vatrano has occasionally surfaced in the rumor mill in recent weeks. The 29-year-old winger leads the Anaheim Ducks with 26 goals and represented the club at the 2024 NHL All-Star Game.

We previously noted that Vatrano had been linked to the New York Rangers. Acquired by the Rangers before the 2022 NHL trade deadline, he had 13 points in 22 regular-season games and 13 points in 20 playoff contests. He left the Blueshirts as a free agent in July 2022 and signed a three-year contract with the Ducks.

Larry Brooks of the New York Post reported on Feb. 24 that Vatrano remained on the Rangers' trade radar. However, they might not be the only club interested in the veteran winger. Ben Gotz of the Las Vegas Review-Journal included him on his list of possible trade targets for the Vegas Golden Knights.

The Athletic's Eric Stephens thinks that Vatrano probably won't be traded. However, he didn't rule out the possibility of the Ducks receiving a suitable trade offer. Teams seeking a scoring forward with playoff experience could find his $3.7 million average annual value worth acquiring.

17. Erik Johnson, Buffalo Sabres

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BUFFALO, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 19: Erik Johnson #6 of the Buffalo Sabres skates during the second period against the Anaheim Ducks during an NHL game on February 19, 2024 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Ben Ludeman/NHLI via Getty Images)
BUFFALO, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 19: Erik Johnson #6 of the Buffalo Sabres skates during the second period against the Anaheim Ducks during an NHL game on February 19, 2024 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Ben Ludeman/NHLI via Getty Images)

Sitting among the top 10 on our previous NHL Trade Block Big Boards, Erik Johnson was expected to be on the move by the March 8 deadline. However, the 35-year-old Buffalo Sabres defenseman hasn't popped up in the rumor mill as much lately, which sends him tumbling down our current listing.

One reason could be Johnson's reluctance to leave the struggling Sabres despite his lack of a no-trade clause in his contract. Another could be that the teams interested in adding defensemen to their rosters are waiting to see what happens with Calgary Flames blueliner Noah Hanifin.

A 16-year NHL veteran, Johnson is no longer the two-way defenseman of his youth. Nevertheless, he's still a reliable penalty killer and a solid net-front presence. He also has Stanley Cup experience having helped the Colorado Avalanche win hockey's holy grail in 2022.

The Hockey News' Michael Augello has kept tabs on Johnson in the trade market. He suggested the Vegas Golden Knights, Toronto Maple Leafs and the Avalanche as potential trade destinations.

16. Anthony Duclair, San Jose Sharks

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SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 24: Anthony Duclair #10 of the San Jose Sharks skates with the puck defended by Alexandre Carrier #45 of the Nashville Predators during the second period period of an NHL hockey game at SAP Center on February 24, 2024 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 24: Anthony Duclair #10 of the San Jose Sharks skates with the puck defended by Alexandre Carrier #45 of the Nashville Predators during the second period period of an NHL hockey game at SAP Center on February 24, 2024 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Anthony Duclair was among the honorable mentions in our Feb. 23 Trade Block Big Board. However, recent speculation puts the San Jose Sharks winger back among the top 20 trade candidates entering March.

It's been a difficult season for Duclair, limited to 11 goals and 19 points in 52 games with the rebuilding, low-scoring Sharks. Nevertheless, he's two years removed from a career-best 31-goal season and established himself as a proven playoff performer during the Florida Panthers' run to the 2023 Stanley Cup Final.

Duclair, 28, is slated to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. On Feb. 26, he told Curtis Pashelka of the Mercury News that he was open to re-signing with the Sharks but there haven't been any contract talks with management. Pashelka considers that an indication that Duclair will be moved by the trade deadline.

Ben Gotz of the Las Vegas Review-Journal included Duclair among his list of proposed trade targets for the Golden Knights. Meanwhile, Florida Hockey Now's George Richards believes the Panthers should reacquire the popular winger for another shot at the Cup.

15. Alex Wennberg, Seattle Kraken

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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - FEBRUARY 22: Alex Wennberg #21 of the Seattle Kraken skates during the first period of a game against the Vancouver Canucks at Climate Pledge Arena on February 22, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Christopher Mast/NHLI via Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - FEBRUARY 22: Alex Wennberg #21 of the Seattle Kraken skates during the first period of a game against the Vancouver Canucks at Climate Pledge Arena on February 22, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Christopher Mast/NHLI via Getty Images)

In our Feb. 23 NHL Trade Block Big Board, we noted in our honorable mentions that there was speculation the New York Rangers had shown some interest in Alex Wennberg. As the Seattle Kraken try to remain in contention for a wild-card berth in the Western Conference, there's more speculation linking the Rangers to the 29-year-old center.

On Feb. 27, The Athletic's Peter Baugh and Thomas Drance suggested Wennberg could fill a need for the Rangers as a third-line center. They cited colleague Arthur Staple indicating the Rangers' interest in Wennberg and his teammate Yanni Gourde. However, the latter has a year left on his contract with a cap hit of $5.17 million.

Wennberg is slated to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. He carries a $4.5 million cap hit and a 10-team no-trade clause. Baugh and Drance believe the Kraken would have to retain half of that cap hit to facilitate a deal, speculating it could cost the Rangers a second-round pick and a lower-level prospect.

The Kraken could become sellers if they slip further out of contention by the trade deadline. Wennberg could also draw interest from clubs that lose out in the bidding for a two-way center like Anaheim's Adam Henrique.

14. Nick Seeler, Philadelphia Flyers

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PITTSBURGH, PA - FEBRUARY 25: Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Nick Seeler (24) looks on during the first period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Philadelphia Flyers on February 25, 2024, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - FEBRUARY 25: Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Nick Seeler (24) looks on during the first period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Philadelphia Flyers on February 25, 2024, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

A regular fixture in trade rumors throughout this season, Nick Seeler was among our top 20 trade candidates when February began. However, the 30-year-old Philadelphia Flyers defenseman slipped down our subsequent rankings amid speculation that he could be signed to a contract extension.

Seeler regains a spot among our top 20 candidates on this board after Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman mentioned him and linemate Sean Walker during his Saturday Headlines report on Feb. 24. He indicated that a pair of clubs were believed to have expressed interest in acquiring both defensemen.

Seeler remains enticing because he carries a very affordable $775,000 cap hit and lacks no-trade protection. Combined with Walker's $2.7 million cap hit, the duo would be a cost-effective pickup for teams seeking improvement to their second or third defense pairings.

With the Flyers still in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race, there's no certainty Seeler will be moved by the trade deadline. Nevertheless, the possibility that a rival club makes a tempting offer ensures his spot on this board with the deadline fast approaching.

13. Jason Zucker, Arizona Coyotes

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TEMPE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 16: Jason Zucker #16 of the Arizona Coyotes gets ready during a face off against the Carolina Hurricanes at Mullett Arena on February 16, 2024 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/NHLI via Getty Images)
TEMPE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 16: Jason Zucker #16 of the Arizona Coyotes gets ready during a face off against the Carolina Hurricanes at Mullett Arena on February 16, 2024 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/NHLI via Getty Images)

Making his debut among our top 20 trade candidates, Arizona Coyotes winger Jason Zucker is no stranger to being moved before the trade deadline. In February 2020, he was shipped to the Pittsburgh Penguins by the Minnesota Wild.

Zucker signed a one-year, $5.3 million contract with Arizona last July. Slated to become an unrestricted free agent again this summer and with the Coyotes tumbling down the standings, the 32-year-old winger probably won't be re-signed by the rebuilding club.

On Feb. 23, The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun reported Coyotes general manager Bill Armstrong is again in sell mode leading up to the trade deadline. Zucker is considered to be among their prime trade candidates as Armstrong looks to stock up on more draft picks.

The Vegas Golden Knights could be a suitor for Zucker, who lacks a no-trade clause in his contract. Ben Gotz of the Las Vegas Review-Journal included the Coyotes winger among his suggested trade targets for the Golden Knights.

12. Anthony Mantha, Washington Capitals

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DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 27: Anthony Mantha #39 of the Washington Capitals skates around in warm ups before the game against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena on February 27, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Dave Reginek/NHLI via Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 27: Anthony Mantha #39 of the Washington Capitals skates around in warm ups before the game against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena on February 27, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Dave Reginek/NHLI via Getty Images)

On Feb. 22, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported the Washington Capitals could become sellers if they haven't gained ground in the race for an Eastern Conference playoff spot by the March 8 deadline. Trade candidates could include pending free agents such as Joel Edmundson, Max Pacioretty and Anthony Mantha.

Of that trio, Mantha could draw the most interest. With 18 goals in 53 games, the 29-year-old right winger is on pace to eclipse his career-high 25 goals set in 2018-19 with the Detroit Red Wings.

Mantha lacks a no-trade clause but carries a cap hit of $5.7 million. Interested clubs will likely ask the Capitals to retain up to half his salary to make a trade happen. That could work in the Caps' favor as they could up the asking price.

Ben Gotz of the Las Vegas Review-Journal included Mantha on his list of proposed trade targets for the Golden Knights. Meanwhile, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman suggested he could be a trade option for the Edmonton Oilers.

11. Martin Necas, Carolina Hurricanes

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TEMPE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 16: Martin Necas #88 of the Carolina Hurricanes skates with the puck against the Arizona Coyotes during the NHL game at Mullett Arena on February 16, 2024 in Tempe, Arizona. The Hurricanes defeated the Coyotes 5-1.  (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
TEMPE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 16: Martin Necas #88 of the Carolina Hurricanes skates with the puck against the Arizona Coyotes during the NHL game at Mullett Arena on February 16, 2024 in Tempe, Arizona. The Hurricanes defeated the Coyotes 5-1. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

The Carolina Hurricanes sit in second place in the Metropolitan Division but aren't the dominant team that topped the division over the last three seasons. That's generated some media speculation over general manager Don Waddell's plans to improve his club's chances of staging a Stanley Cup run.

That resulted in Martin Necas surfacing as a trade candidate. A versatile forward who can play center or right wing, the 25-year-old sits third among Hurricanes scorers with 42 points in 54 games. He carries a $3 million cap hit and can become a restricted free agent with arbitration rights this summer.

The Hurricanes' goaltending issues prompted some pundits to suggest Necas could become a trade chip to land a reliable starting netminder. On Feb. 12, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman suggested he might tempt the Nashville Predators to part with Juuse Saros. Two weeks later, the New York Post's Larry Brooks reported they could listen to offers for Necas.

On Feb. 19, The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun reported Waddell was fine with his goaltending and defense corps but would like to add a top-six forward, preferably one with term remaining on their contract. Perhaps Necas could be used as bait to acquire such a player.

10. Reilly Smith, Pittsburgh Penguins

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PITTSBURGH, PA - FEBRUARY 18: Pittsburgh Penguins Left Wing Reilly Smith (19) skates during the first period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Los Angeles Kings on February 18, 2024, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - FEBRUARY 18: Pittsburgh Penguins Left Wing Reilly Smith (19) skates during the first period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Los Angeles Kings on February 18, 2024, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The most recent trade speculation about the Pittsburgh Penguins centers on Jake Guentzel. However, Reilly Smith has recently surfaced in the rumor mill. With the Penguins looking more like sellers as the trade deadline nears, the 32-year-old winger could become an attractive target for playoff contenders seeking scorers with championship experience.

Smith spent the last six seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights, helping them win the 2023 Stanley Cup. He's tallied 20-plus goals in five seasons and 50 or more points six times, but his production is down this season with just 10 goals and 25 points in 50 games. He's signed through 2024-25 with a cap hit of $5 million and a 10-team no-trade clause.

On Feb. 6, The Athletic's Jesse Granger and Josh Yohe tossed around the idea of a reunion with the Golden Knights. That was echoed on Feb. 23 by Ben Gotz of the Las Vegas Review-Journal when he included Smith among his trade candidates for the Golden Knights to replace sidelined winger Mark Stone.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman wondered on Feb. 21 if Smith might rejoin another former club. He suggested he'd be a good fit with the Florida Panthers, but there's no indication they're looking into it.

9. Jake DeBrusk, Boston Bruins

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CALGARY, CANADA - FEBRUARY 22: Jake DeBrusk #74 of the Boston Bruins in action against the Calgary Flames during an NHL game at Scotiabank Saddledome on February 22, 2024 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.  (Photo by Derek Leung/Getty Images)
CALGARY, CANADA - FEBRUARY 22: Jake DeBrusk #74 of the Boston Bruins in action against the Calgary Flames during an NHL game at Scotiabank Saddledome on February 22, 2024 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Derek Leung/Getty Images)

Slated to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, Jake DeBrusk makes his debut on our NHL Trade Block Big Board after telling reporters on Feb. 28 that contract talks had stalled with the Boston Bruins. Boston Hockey Now's Jimmy Murphy suggested it's a good bet that the 27-year-old winger is traded.

A seven-season NHL veteran, DeBrusk has scored 25 or more goals three times and 42-plus points four times. He has a reputation as a streaky scorer and has played on all four lines with the Bruins. DeBrusk can be an effective top-six winger when he's on top of his game. He's in the final season of a two-year contract with an annual cap hit of $4 million.

The Bruins are jockeying for first place in the overall standings. They could retain DeBrusk as an "own rental" for the remainder of the season. However, he might also prove a valuable trade chip to address their need for a rugged defenseman or a skilled center.

Murphy linked DeBrusk, a native of Edmonton, to the Oilers and Calgary Flames. He could also draw interest from clubs that fail to pry away Jake Guentzel from the Pittsburgh Penguins.

8. Scott Laughton, Philadelphia Flyers

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CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 21:  Scott Laughton #21 of the Philadelphia Flyers skates against the Chicago Blackhawks on February 21, 2024 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois.  (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 21: Scott Laughton #21 of the Philadelphia Flyers skates against the Chicago Blackhawks on February 21, 2024 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)

While not an unrestricted free agent like many on this list, Scott Laughton increasingly appeared in trade rumors throughout February. The 29-year-old Philadelphia Flyers center is signed through 2025-26 with an average annual value of $3 million.

A versatile two-way forward who can also play left wing and has leadership skills, Laughton has played a key role in the Flyers exceeding expectations as they remain in third place in the Metropolitan Division. Nevertheless, management's willingness to entertain trade offers for their veterans ensures he remains a player of interest in the rumor mill.

In our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board, we noted speculation linking Laughton to the New York Rangers. On Feb. 20, Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli suggested the Rangers, Buffalo Sabres, Colorado Avalanche, Edmonton Oilers, Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs as possible destinations.

Seravalli noted the Flyers could set a high asking price for Laughton, which could prove too expensive for most teams to take on. That probably suits them just fine as they contend for a playoff berth. Given his contract, they're under no pressure to ship him out.

7. Vladimir Tarasenko, Ottawa Senators

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OTTAWA, CANADA - FEBRUARY 24:  Vladimir Tarasenko #91 of the Ottawa Senators shoots the puck against the Vegas Golden Knights at Canadian Tire Centre on February 24, 2024 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.  (Photo by André Ringuette/NHLI via Getty Images)
OTTAWA, CANADA - FEBRUARY 24: Vladimir Tarasenko #91 of the Ottawa Senators shoots the puck against the Vegas Golden Knights at Canadian Tire Centre on February 24, 2024 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by André Ringuette/NHLI via Getty Images)

A fixture among the top 10 trade candidates throughout February, Vladimir Tarasenko of the Ottawa Senators remains among the players most likely to be moved by March 8. On Feb. 25, the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch indicated the time was drawing near for the 32-year-old winger to consider waiving his no-trade clause.

Garrioch reported that Tarasenko wasn't at the top of most teams' trade lists but some had contacted the Senators. General manager Steve Staios hadn't yet asked the veteran winger to waive his clause but could do so soon if a suitable offer is received. Garrioch believes that the asking price is a second-round pick and a prospect.

Tarasenko has a full no-trade clause as part of his one-year, $5 million contract. They might have to retain part of his salary to facilitate a trade, which might land them a better return.

Garrioch listed the Vegas Golden Knights, New York Rangers, Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers as possible suitors. Ben Gotz of the Las Vegas Review-Journal included Tarasenko on his Feb. 23 list of proposed trade targets for the Golden Knights.

6. Sean Walker, Philadelphia Flyers

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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - FEBRUARY 08:  Sean Walker #26 of the Philadelphia Flyers looks on against the Winnipeg Jets at the Wells Fargo Center on February 8, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  (Photo by Len Redkoles/NHLI via Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - FEBRUARY 08: Sean Walker #26 of the Philadelphia Flyers looks on against the Winnipeg Jets at the Wells Fargo Center on February 8, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Len Redkoles/NHLI via Getty Images)

With the Philadelphia Flyers remaining in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race, it's raised questions over the trade status of Sean Walker. The 29-year-old defenseman is slated to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. It's been rumored that Walker could be traded but the Flyers' current performance puts that into doubt.

With a cap hit of $2.7 million and lacking no-trade protection, Walker has drawn interest from clubs enticed by his affordable contract and solid overall performance. In our previous NHL Trade Block Big Board, we noted that the Flyers are believed to be seeking a first- or second-round pick for Walker but could hang onto him for the playoffs if no one meets their price.

On Feb. 24, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported two teams contacted the Flyers inquiring about acquiring Walker and his defense partner, Nick Seeler. They've formed a solid blue-line pairing this season. Friedman said the club is weighing whether to re-sign or trade them.

With the trade deadline one week away, the Flyers seem no closer to trading Walker. Given their position in the standings, they can afford to be patient but could be satisfied hanging onto him as an "own rental" for the postseason.

5. Pavel Buchnevich, St. Louis Blues

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ST. LOUIS, MO - January 11: St. Louis Blues left wing Pavel Buchnevich (89) during a regular season game between the New York Rangers and the St. Louis Blues on January 11, 2024, at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis MO (Photo by Rick Ulreich/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
ST. LOUIS, MO - January 11: St. Louis Blues left wing Pavel Buchnevich (89) during a regular season game between the New York Rangers and the St. Louis Blues on January 11, 2024, at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis MO (Photo by Rick Ulreich/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The St. Louis Blues are jockeying for a Western Conference wild-card spot. Nevertheless, Pavel Buchnevich recently surfaced in media gossip as a trade candidate. Should the Blues continue their recent struggles leading up to the deadline, the 28-year-old right winger could become an enticing trade target for contenders seeking a forward with term left on his contract.

Buchnevich has a year remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $5.8 million and a 12-team no-trade clause. He's reached or exceeded 20 goals in four of the last five seasons, including 23 goals in 56 games this season. The Blues aren't facing any pressure to move him, but perhaps they might be tempted by a significant offer.

On Feb. 21, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported Blues general manager Doug Armstrong set a high asking price for Buchnevich. He isn't sure what Armstrong wants in return but thought it could be two first-round picks "or something like that."

The Athletic's Jeremy Rutherford believes the lack of talent in this year's trade market could elevate Buchnevich's value. On Feb. 22, Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal speculated the Oilers were scouting the Blues winger. The following day, Ben Gotz of the Las Vegas Review-Journal had him on his list of possible trade targets for the Golden Knights.

4. Jacob Markstrom, Calgary Flames

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CALGARY, AB - FEBRUARY 27: Jacob Markstrom #25 of the Calgary Flames stands tall in net against the Los Angeles Kings at Scotiabank on February 27, 2024 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Gerry Thomas/NHLI via Getty Images)
CALGARY, AB - FEBRUARY 27: Jacob Markstrom #25 of the Calgary Flames stands tall in net against the Los Angeles Kings at Scotiabank on February 27, 2024 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Gerry Thomas/NHLI via Getty Images)

Reports that the Calgary Flames were close to a trade that would've sent Jacob Markstrom to the New Jersey Devils put the 34-year-old goaltender atop our Feb. 16 NHL Trade Block Big Board. Since that rumored deal fell through, Markstrom has slipped a bit in our rankings but remains a hot topic of media conjecture.

Markstrom's contract was the significant sticking point that is said to have derailed a possible move to New Jersey. He's signed through 2025-26 with an average annual value of $6 million and a no-movement clause. While he reportedly had no issue going to New Jersey, the Flames refused to retain part of his annual cap hit to facilitate a trade.

On Feb. 24, the New York Post's Larry Brooks wondered if Markstrom might also consider waiving his no-movement clause for a different club. He raised the possibility that the Carolina Hurricanes might come calling.

The Flames, meanwhile, aren't facing the same pressure to move Markstrom as they are with a pending unrestricted free agent like Noah Hanifin. If a suitable deal doesn't arise by March 8, they'll be content to wait until the offseason for better offers depending on which club he'd be willing to play for.

3. Adam Henrique, Anaheim Ducks

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OTTAWA, CANADA - FEBRUARY 15:  Adam Henrique #14 of the Anaheim Ducks skates against the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre on February 15, 2024 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.  (Photo by André Ringuette/NHLI via Getty Images)
OTTAWA, CANADA - FEBRUARY 15: Adam Henrique #14 of the Anaheim Ducks skates against the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre on February 15, 2024 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by André Ringuette/NHLI via Getty Images)

Regularly perched among the top five players in our previous NHL Trade Block Big Boards in February, Adam Henrique of the Anaheim Ducks remains the best center available in an otherwise thin market for players at that position. An unrestricted free agent this summer, he carries a $5.8 million cap hit and a 10-team no-trade clause.

Henrique's contract is a sticking point for potential suitors in a season where many teams have limited salary-cap space. Nevertheless, he remains a frequent subject of trade chatter among NHL pundits.

On Feb. 22, The Athletic's Eric Stephens suggested that the 34-year-old Henrique was among the Ducks' most attractive trade chips. He cited a lack of depth among skilled centers available in the trade market, adding that Henrique sounded prepared to be traded.

In our previous Trade Block Big Board, we cited TSN's Darren Dreger had reported the Edmonton Oilers were looking at Henrique as a third-line center. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman shared that opinion, saying the Oilers were interested in Henrique and his teammate Sam Carrick.

2. Noah Hanifin, Calgary Flames

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EDMONTON, CANADA - FEBRUARY 24: Noah Hanifin #55 of the Calgary Flames warms up before the game against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place on February 24, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Andy Devlin/NHLI via Getty Images)
EDMONTON, CANADA - FEBRUARY 24: Noah Hanifin #55 of the Calgary Flames warms up before the game against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place on February 24, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Andy Devlin/NHLI via Getty Images)

Reports suggesting Noah Hanifin appeared headed to this summer's free-agent market put the 27-year-old Calgary Flames defenseman atop our Feb. 23 NHL Trade Block Big Board. While there remains no official confirmation regarding his intentions, he remains among the top trade candidates as the deadline approaches.

On Feb. 21, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reiterated his earlier report suggesting Hanifin wouldn't re-sign with the Flames. He noted the Tampa Bay Lightning were linked to the blueliner but doubted they could muster a suitable trade offer. The Toronto Maple Leafs could also be interested, but Friedman doubts he'll sign a contract extension with them.

Meanwhile, The Athletic's Fluto Shinzawa speculated the Boston Bruins would love to acquire local boy Hanifin. However, he doesn't think they can afford the Flames' expensive asking price or his $5 million cap hit.

On Feb. 27, The Athletic's Sean Gentille suggested the Tampa Bay Lightning could have enough trade capital to acquire Hanifin. His colleague Jonas Siegel included Hanifin on his list of possible trade targets for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

1. 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)

Sidelined by an upper-body injury since Feb. 14, Jake Guentzel remains the subject of considerable media trade chatter. The 29-year-old Pittsburgh Penguins winger is expected to come off long-term injury reserve roughly a week following the March 8 trade deadline. It's expected the Penguins will move him by the trade deadline.

An established scoring winger and a proven playoff performer, Guentzel would draw plenty of interest from playoff contenders. On Feb. 24, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman expressed his belief that the Vegas Golden Knights, Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks, Carolina Hurricanes and Florida Panthers are potential suitors.

Slated to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, Guentzel carries a $6 million cap hit for this season plus a 12-team no-trade list. Interested clubs must have sufficient cap room to take on the remainder of his salary as well as enough high-quality tradeable assets to tempt the Penguins, who are trying to add younger players to their roster.

Friedman added more intrigue on Feb. 21 by speculating that the Penguins could take another shot at signing Guentzel to a contract extension. He also felt that some clubs might want to speak to him about a new contract before agreeing to a trade. Meanwhile, ESPN's Emily Kaplan reports the Penguins have set a "sky-high" asking price for Guentzel.

Nevertheless, Guentzel is the most talented player on the trade market. He's exceeded 20 goals every season since 2017-18 and over 50 points in five of the last six seasons. Despite the possibility the Penguins could retain him, we feel at this stage that he belongs atop our Trade Block Big Board with the trade deadline a week away.


Stats and standing (as of Feb 29, 2024) via NHL.com. Salary info via Cap Friendly.

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