The NHL is currently in a bit of turmoil after the unsuccessful trade involving Brady Tkachuk to Florida last weekend. It appears that teams are starting to think about their future in addition to the immediate drafting needs, trying to map out their trajectories over the coming years.
Recently, the Buffalo Sabers have made a flurry of moves, the Capitals have acquired Jordan Kyrou, and the Senators have made a notable trade involving their No. 9 draft pick. As the draft approaches, some rumors are making waves in the hockey community. Let’s explore these whispers and identify which ones hold weight and which, well, might not.
Don’t buy: Connor Bedard trade rumors
The Blackhawks are working diligently to finalize a contract extension for Connor Bedard before he becomes a restricted free agent in July. However, the idea that Chicago might trade him, even amid rocky negotiations, is something I really can’t see happening.
Sure, Bedard is known for his fierce competitiveness and wants the Blackhawks to improve, but I can’t find a credible destination for him right now. In theory, a mid-range playoff team like Utah or Buffalo could be interested, but they lack the assets and desire to take on players still developing their games at the NHL level. It seems likely that a team such as the Maple Leafs, Canucks, or Red Wings, who would be more inclined to select Bedard, would be in the best position. He’s clearly focused on winning.
Right now, Chicago’s best strategy is to seal a deal. I really think they’ll pull it off, even if it costs them a pretty penny for a player at his age. This market is significant, and with a rising star on their hands, they seem intent on making trades to enhance their prospects (just look at Bowen Byram’s trade). Their player pipeline looks promising for the future as well.
Buy: Hurricane Shopping Alexander Nikin
The Stanley Cup Champions boast some of the NHL’s brightest talent, and they know it. Initially, the Canes appeared set on re-signing Nikine for the long term, but rumors suggest that his agent is aiming for a much larger deal than Carolina can manage after just one season in the league.
It’s interesting because there’s an argument that Nikine fits as a third-line defenseman for the Hurricanes, yet he could be a top-four player on many other teams. Given his youth, there is certainly a pool of interested teams. The Canes can maintain their “next man up” philosophy without losing depth. This is particularly due to Ke’Andre Miller’s breakout performance last year.
Nikine is expected to be traded ahead of the NHL Draft, and I think that will involve a significant deal.
Don’t buy: Connor Hellebuyck to Panthers
There’s a clear disconnect happening in Florida. There’s simply no way the Panthers can acquire Connor Hellebuyck without giving up something valuable from their roster. No way, not at all.
Florida has already traded nearly everything they had left to land Brady Tkachuk and keep their roster intact. This means the real asset in any package for Hellebuyck would be Anton Randle, who they’ve indicated isn’t a starter. He’s among the few young prospects that looks promising for the next six or seven years, making it risky to upgrade goaltenders without a solid player.
Moreover, people might be overrating Hellebuyck. He’s coming off a slow season combined with a big extension, but in the future, if one considers the end of his regression, what remains on his contract may not be significant at all. Florida might be better off focusing on other options.
Buy It: Devils Making Splash with Number 12
The New Jersey Devils are eager to return to playoff contention while Jack Hughes is still in his prime, and there’s been a buzz regarding the No. 12 overall pick and their $13 million in cap space.
This looks like a prime chance for them to make a significant move in the trade market. I can’t help but feel Jason Robertson from the Stars could be a solid fit in a sign-and-trade. Dallas would love to keep him, but they’re currently in a tricky cap situation that may force them to part with important pieces. They’re obviously feeling the weight of signing Mikko Rantanen.
New Jersey seems like a great spot for scoring, and the No. 12 pick could allow the Stars to focus on future growth. If Robertson doesn’t pan out, keep an eye on someone like Matthew Nyes from Toronto; he could also be a good option.
