The NHL’s trade deadline is set for March 6, with significant movement anticipated as the February 4 roster freeze approaches. Teams are preparing for potential trades, particularly as they evaluate their rosters and cap situations ahead of this key date.
Carolina Hurricanes’ Trade Aspirations
The Carolina Hurricanes are poised to make an impact ahead of the roster freeze. Currently, they lead the Metropolitan Division by eight points. Insiders report that the Hurricanes are eager to finalize a deal before the break.
- Team: Carolina Hurricanes
- Division Standing: 1st in Metropolitan
Pierre LeBrun suggests that Carolina has the financial flexibility to add a player. However, finding a suitable match through trade remains crucial.
Focus on Artemi Panarin
The Hurricanes are reportedly interested in New York Rangers winger Artemi Panarin. His pursuit of a four-year extension at approximately $11 million annually complicates any potential trades.
Chris Johnston notes that the Rangers aim to trade Panarin before the roster freeze. The decision ultimately rests on Panarin and his agent as they evaluate offers from various teams. One of these teams purportedly offered a $40 million contract, but this deal hinges on Panarin finding the right situation.
Interest from Other Teams
Panarin’s preferred teams are believed to be the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning, both of which face salary cap constraints. Other interested teams, including the Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks, have more financial flexibility to pursue Panarin.
- Potential Teams for Panarin:
- Florida Panthers
- Tampa Bay Lightning
- Los Angeles Kings
- San Jose Sharks
With the Olympics approaching, Panarin will not play until after the break, creating a lengthy hiatus for him. Both the Rangers and Panarin prefer a resolution before this extended break begins.
General Manager Insights
Many NHL general managers expect the roster freeze to bring a temporary pause in trades but plan to keep discussions ongoing. LeBrun indicates that most teams are not inclined to make significant moves before the freeze, opting instead to reassess their standings during the Olympic hiatus.
Darren Dreger highlights that while some teams will actively pursue deals during the Olympic break, others may step back initially before re-engaging. The trade deadline window will be busy once the break concludes, creating a rush for potential trades.
St. Louis Blues Considering Major Changes
The St. Louis Blues are reportedly contemplating significant roster changes. Currently positioned near the bottom of the NHL standings, general manager Doug Armstrong is seeking to refresh the team.
- Key Players Potentially on the Block:
- Colton Parayko
- Jordan Binnington
- Justin Faulk
- Brayden Schenn
- Jordan Kyrou
- Robert Thomas
While interest surrounds these players, high asking prices pose challenges in finalizing trades. The situation creates a complex scenario for the Blues as they navigate their future direction.
As the February 4 roster freeze approaches, the hockey world eagerly anticipates developments regarding trades, particularly the fate of Artemi Panarin and other key players around the league.
