Nik Antropov's Possible Trade Destinations

The tour of Leaf players who could possibly be moved by the Mar. 4. trade deadline has now shifted to the forward position. For the sake of argument, we will remain focused upon those players who will likely net the biggest return going forward.

Brian Burke initiated criticism upon Antropov's play early last week, essentially stating that the big forward's play did not warrant contract extension talks, and a change of scenery could be in the cards for Nik.

Antropov, however, responded well to the criticism and ended a 16-game goal-less streak by notching five in his next six games.

The forward market is saturated compared to previous deadlines as Antropov's name headline's a list of possible forwards available along with Keith Tkachuk, Marian Gaborik, Olli Jokinen, and Vincent Lecavalier.

The chances of Gaborik and Lecavalier moving at this point are minimal, but we will include them anyhow as it would not be a major surprise if either player is moved.

Many arguments have been made on the actual worth of a player of Antropov's calibre at the trade deadline. Many fans expect to receive a first round pick in the deal, while others expect a prospect or a mid-round pick.

Reports surfaced in the Globe and Mail Tuesday that Antropov was on the verge of being dealt to Pittsburgh in exchange for Ryan Whitney or Alex Goligoski and a first round selection in 2009. This scenario had not gone past the rumor stage, but would a player like Antropov net a return that high?

It will all depend on the desperation of general managers around the league come Mar. 4. The following is a list of teams which could serve as possible destinations for Antropov. Once again, this is pure speculation on my part and by no means signifies imminent deals in the future. 

BOSTON BRUINS

The Bruins have been in the market for a big top six forward for quite some time. I do expect, however, the Bruins to be bigger players for local boy Keith Tkachuk. If a deal, however, is struck with Toronto, expect Burke to have interest in prospects Matt Lashoff, Zach Hamill, or forward Chuck Kobasew.

Draft picks will also likely be on Burke's radar for any deal involving Antropov.

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS

The Blackhawks are still currently in the market for a second line center, and Antropov could potentially fit the bill in terms of size and skill. The Blackhawks will not be mortgaging any chunk of their future this deadline as players such as Cam Barker, Kris Versteeg, and Duncan Keith will not be moved.

Burke, however, could inquire upon the availability of goaltender Corey Crawford or forwards Jack Skille and Dustin Byfuglien, who the Hawks would love to move due to cap considerations.

COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS

This rumor will not go away, it has actually been present since around December. The Blue Jackets are a team who need to make the playoffs this season, so do not be surprised if they decide to slightly overpay at the deadline to bolster their roster moving forward.

Likely targets as returns for Antropov could be Tommy Sestito, Maxim Mayorov, or Rostislav Klesla. Burke will potentially make a push to pry away their first or second rounder in a deal for Antropov.

DALLAS STARS

With the latest injury to Brad Richards, expect the Stars to be in the market for a top six forward to fill the void. Brian Burke will likely look to pry away prospect Jamie Benn in any deal with the Stars. Do not be surprised, furthermore, if Dallas is looking to move rookie Fabian Brunnstrom as he has not panned out as expected with the Stars.

LOS ANGELES KINGS

The Kings are the dark horse in the western conference. If they remain in the thick of the race come Mar. 4. they will be major buyers. The Kings are looking for experience both on the forward and defensive positions. Look for Burke to target Jonathan Bernier or Colten Teubert in a deal for Antropov.

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS

The Penguins are officially in desperation mode. They need a big winger to play with Crosby upfront as Miroslav Satan has not got the job done this season. Do not expect, however, the Penguins to make a splash as they did last season when they landed superstar Marian Hossa. Antropov fills the needs of the Penguins in terms of skill set, size, and contract status.

If the Penguins are in fact looking for a way to clear cap space, I could see Burke looking at taking Ryan Whitney off their hands though I find it highly unlikely. A deal surrounding Alex Golgoski or Luca Caputi seems like a more likely scenario to play out.

A salary dump in the form of Satan or Fedotenko could also be heading to the Maple Leafs within the deal.

The first domino will need to fall in order to get an idea of Antropov's real value come Mar. 4. For now, it is purely speculative on potential returns.