News broke today that forward Jonathan Drouin has requested a trade out of Tampa Bay. The 20 year old has had difficulty winning his coach's trust, and as a result was recently demoted to the AHL.
Rumours of Drouin's discontent started emerging during last year's playoffs, where he served as waterboy while Tampa Bay stormed to the Stanley Cup finals. Those rumours continued to percolate during a dull summer, and you can be forgiven if you thought it was nothing more than bored bloggers keeping themselves occupied.
Drouin was still there when training camp began in September, and all seemed to have been forgiven.
Not so, as it has now been revealed. Drouin allegedly asked for a trade in November, and today it was officially publicized by his agent, Allan Walsh, that his client wants out.
This is a developing story, and as such, things can change very quickly. But after some digging, there seem to be a few possible destinations for Drouin:
Ottawa Senators
The Senators have sought a top six winger since the summer, and Drouin would certainly fit in with the youth movement. The Lightning would probably look to the Western Conference for trade partners before turning to the Senators, but wouldn't it be something if Ottawa were able to turn Drouin's career around like fellow 3rd overall pick, Kyle Turris? Although Turris was less heralded in 2007 as Drouin was in 2013, both found themselves struggling to find ice time and to show their capabilities as "complete players".
The Senators are rumoured to be shopping defensemen, including Jared Cowen and Patrick Wiercioch. Would either serve as a piece in a package for Drouin?
St. Louis Blues
The Blues have been linked to the Lightning in trade talks for close to a year. In recent months, the Blues have been rumoured to be looking for more help on the wing. Is Drouin that piece, or would he just add to a list of young, unproven wingers that the Blues already own?
Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks are a team that could use a shot in the arm and help on the wing. Drouin could slide in on the top line quite easily here.
The Field
Truth be told, almost every team in the NHL should be interested in acquiring a 20 year old third overall pick on an entry level deal. The Drouin trade picture remains mirky, but it's a storyline that should get a little clearer in the coming days and weeks.
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