Insider Reveals Top 10 NHL Trade Candidates to Watch
The NHL season is still in its early stages, yet trade discussions are heating up. Teams have played between seven to nine games, prompting clubs to plan potential trades. Insider Chris Johnston from The Athletic has identified ten players who are drawing attention as potential trade candidates ahead of the upcoming trade deadline.
Top NHL Trade Candidates to Watch
The following list features the top ten players to keep an eye on as trade talks intensify:
- Rasmus Andersson (Calgary Flames)
- D Bryan Rust (Pittsburgh Penguins)
- F Rickard Rakell (Pittsburgh Penguins)
- F Alex Tuch (Buffalo Sabres)
- F Jean-Gabriel Pageau (New York Islanders)
- C Jaden Schwartz (Seattle Kraken)
- F Jamie Oleksiak (Seattle Kraken)
- D Mario Ferraro (San Jose Sharks)
- D Nick Robertson (Toronto Maple Leafs)
- F Brennan Othmann (New York Rangers)
Rasmus Andersson: A Strong Trade Candidate
Rasmus Andersson’s name has been frequently mentioned in trade discussions. He is a pending unrestricted free agent and has been on the rumor mill since last season’s trade deadline. His teammate, Mikael Backlund, suggested earlier this summer that a trade is likely.
Players in the Penguins’ Trade Discussions
Both Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell have three years remaining on their contracts, giving the Pittsburgh Penguins some leverage. With cap hits around $5 million, either player could fetch a strong return. General Manager Kyle Dubas is hesitant to lower their price amid rebuilding efforts.
Buffalo Sabres and Alex Tuch
Alex Tuch is another name frequently discussed. His extension negotiations with the Sabres have stalled, causing concerns about his rising asking price.
Potential Moves from the Islanders and Kraken
Jean-Gabriel Pageau is a player to watch if the New York Islanders experience a downturn. As a pending UFA, he could attract interest as a reliable middle-six center. Meanwhile, both Jaden Schwartz and Jamie Oleksiak from the Seattle Kraken are also pending UFAs who might attract trade talks.
Trade Buzz Around Ferraro and Robertson
Mario Ferraro’s expiring contract raises the likelihood of a trade from the San Jose Sharks. Conversely, Nick Robertson’s situation with the Toronto Maple Leafs is more complicated. Despite frustration regarding his playing time, demand for him appears limited.
New York Rangers’ Brennan Othmann
Brennan Othmann has recently emerged as a trade candidate. After being called up due to an injury in the Rangers’ lineup, he faces an opportunity to prove his value in the coming games.
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, these players will be closely monitored by teams seeking to improve their rosters.
