As the NHL trade deadline on March 6 approaches, speculation surrounds several players potentially on the move, including New York Rangers center Vincent Trocheck and Vancouver Canucks forward Evander Kane. Reports indicate interest from multiple teams, while Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen also draws attention. Other buzz involves Calgary Flames players and Nashville Predators captain Steven Stamkos.
The New York Rangers' recent trade of Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings has fueled speculation that center Vincent Trocheck, 32, could be next. Sources reported by James Murphy of RG.Org on Feb. 23 suggest the Minnesota Wild are front-runners, with the Rangers seeking prospect right winger Charlie Stramel and possibly rookie goaltender Jesper Wallstedt. The Detroit Red Wings also show interest, potentially offering rookie defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka and a prospect goalie like Sebastian Cossa or Trey Augustine. Trocheck has a $5.625 million average annual value with three years remaining.
In Vancouver, the Canucks are attempting to trade right winger Evander Kane, 34, who is eligible for unrestricted free agency in July and carries a $5.15 million cap hit, with the team able to retain up to half. Thomas Drance of The Athletic noted interest, and TSN's Chris Johnston reported inquiries from the Carolina Hurricanes, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Dallas Stars. Separately, defenseman Tyler Myers, 36, was scratched from a game against the Winnipeg Jets for roster management purposes, amid the team's 18-33-7 record. Coach Adam Foote described it as typical deadline activity, while forward Evander Kane emphasized mental preparation for potential moves.
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen, 31, with one year left at $5.1 million AAV and no no-trade protection, has resurfaced in rumors. Daily Faceoff's Anthony Di Marco reported interest from half a dozen teams, with his Olympic performance for Finland boosting value. The Flyers seek a prospect and two draft picks, including a first-rounder.
Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri, 35, leading with 39 points, and forward Blake Coleman have discussed their situations with general manager Craig Conroy. Kadri has a 13-team no-trade list and three years left on his $7 million AAV deal. Coleman, with 21 points, is practicing after injury.
Nashville Predators forward Steven Stamkos, 36, linked to the Kings after Kevin Fiala's injury, stated he is not worried due to his full no-move clause. In 57 games, he has 28 goals and 44 points. Stamkos said, "I have a full-move clause, so I get to make a decision whenever it comes down to that."
The Florida Panthers face a pivotal week post-Olympics, eight points from a wild card, while Winnipeg Jets center Jonathan Toews plans to stay despite slim playoff hopes.
