With the trade deadline almost here, there has been plenty of original content here at PHR over the past seven days and those articles are highlighted here.
We wrapped up our trade deadline primers for the Metropolitan Division with Gavin breaking down the situations for the Rangers, Flyers, Penguins, and Capitals. The latter three are all likely to be buyers although limited cap space could have them shopping for depth players. New York is interesting – while they’ve been perceived as a likely seller, they’re not that far out of a Wild Card spot either so it’s far from a guarantee that they go that route now.
Last up is our tour of the Central Division. I previewed the Blackhawks, Avalanche, and Blues while Holger did the same for the Stars, Wild, and Predators. Of those teams, Colorado may be the one to keep an eye on in the hours leading up to the deadline as they have plenty of cap space and roster spots to fill due to injuries.
Gavin held his weekly Thursday chat. While the trade deadline dominated the topics, other discussion points included a pair of rookie wingers that have been big surprises this season, the surprising Blue Jackets, Dustin Byfuglien’s playing future, and more.
In our Trade Candidate profiles, the focus has predominantly been players that are going to fill an important role on a contender but there are often players that are moved simply to improve depth going into the playoffs. Buffalo winger Conor Sheary is one of those players; I examined what teams he could fit in on if a team decides to make a late move for him on Monday.
Part two of our mailbag is now available. Topics included the willingness for teams to consider chemistry at the junior level in determining player acquisitions, Henrik Lundqvist and Brady Skjei’s future with the Rangers, Detroit’s dilemma with Andreas Athanasiou, and more.