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Red Wings have 8 potential UFAs, but does any team want them |
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Trade buzz
When the Detroit Red Wings acquired Nick Leddy to help mentor Mo Seider the expectation was the team would be able to move Leddy at the trade deadline for at least a second round pick. That's what they gave the Islanders to acquire him. But with Nick Leddy owning a -32 plus-minus, the Red Wings have to be wondering if they can move him at all.
Leddy hasn't had a quality season offensively or defensively. At best, the Red Wings might find a third round pick. Maybe a team will be interested based on his history.
If the Sharks are able to extend Tomas Hertl's contract there will be disappointment around the NHL. Not only do several contenders want him as a rental, but a handful of teams are targeting him as their No. 1 UFA target. The fact he is 28 makes him more desirable than either Claude Giroux or Joe Pavelski.
The expectation is that the Sharks and Hertl will come together, but that is not a certainty.
Some GMs believe Arizona defenseman Jakob Chychrun will get moved before the March 21 NHL trade deadline. The reasoning for that opinion is that there are a handful of teams involved in trade talks about Chychrun. Surely one of them will ante up the offer that will complete the transaction. The Coyotes are still asking for multiple assets, including a first-round pick and a high level prospect.
Boston Hockey Now reports that the Boston Bruins are interested in 6-foot-3 rough-and-tumble San Jose Sharks defenseman Jacob Middleton. The St. Louis Blues are also interested.
Middleton's bargain $750,000 cap hit enhances his desirability. The Bruins are expected to add at least a defenseman, and possible a forward.
Don't rule out Red Wings defenseman Marc Staal waiving his no-trade clause to go to a contender. He's a highly competitive veteran who gives everything he has every practice and every game. He will reach 1,000 career games Saturday.
"If something comes along that’s a great fit and Steve (Yzerman) wants to do it, I’ll look at it," Staal said. "Other than that, I enjoy playing here and look forward to that.”
The Florida Panthers are probably one of the leading contenders for Flyers defenseman Justin Braun, but there are other teams interested. Teams like his $1.8 million cap hit and his ability to log 20-22 minutes per night.
In his short time with the Panthers, general manager Bill Zito has proven he can close on trades.
If the Colorado Avalanche don’t pull Claude Giroux into the boat, look for them to attempt to hook Winnipeg forward Andrew Copp. He is a consistent performer. Coaches trust his effort.
Expect the Jets will ask for a quality prospect and probably a second-round pick. Several teams will be interested in Copp, which will drive up the price.
Everyone thought the Stars would be sellers. But now they may be buyers. Hearing rumors they be interested in Rasmus Ristolainen.
Blogger •HHOF Writer's column on the NHL • 
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