Here is a rundown of the original content at PHR over the past seven days.
The Central Division features a pair of teams whose fortunes are certainly in the air. The Predators came into the season viewed as a likely contender and now the question is simply whether or not they’re merely going to make the playoffs; a small majority of the predictions so far have them missing out. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are close enough where it could be justified for them to buy, sell, or stand pat. So far, our readers believe they should be selling but there is still time to vote.
Speaking of Nashville, Mikael Granlund was expected to be a key addition when they picked him up at the 2019 trade deadline from Minnesota. However, things have not worked out well and between that and their situation in the standings, there’s a good chance that he could be on the move between now and the 24th. I took a closer look at his situation including some potential suitors although, with a $5.75MM price tag, cap constraints could potentially come into play.
We’re tackling our deadline primers in a couple of divisions. We continued our tour around the Pacific Division as Gavin assessed the situation in Los Angeles while Holger did the same for San Jose and Vancouver. The three teams are in very different situations – the Kings are sellers in the middle of a rebuild, the Sharks are sellers but are hoping to be back in the hunt next season, and the Canucks will be looking to add. Meanwhile, Gavin also previewed how things are looking in Boston and Buffalo. The Bruins are known to be looking for some help on the wing while the Sabres, while out of contention at the moment, are still seeking forward help but could wind up selling before too long as well.
Zack’s tour around college hockey featured a discussion on some of the prospects that could find their NHL rights being dealt between now and the trade deadline, a look at some recent results, a key injury for Minnesota State, and a big commitment for New Hampshire.
Devils defenseman Sami Vatanen hasn’t generated a lot of trade hype yet but that is likely to change before too long. I examined his situation as it pertains to a potential trade and as he’ll be one of the top blueliners on the move over the next few weeks, he’s certain to garner quite a bit of interest.