Here are eight key players that aren't generating many headlines this rumour season, but could be on the move before the trade deadline.
- Johnny Oduya - Though they might not be the strongest defensive team, the Stars have a surplus of NHL defenseman. Oduya has popped up in trade rumours and could help the team add to their forward depth. If the Stars continue to struggle, they may seriously look at making this deal.
- Michal Neuvirth - Most rumour talk in Philadelphia surrounds pending UFA goalie Steve Mason. But what about his counterpart Michal Neuvirth, who is also set to become a UFA? Neither has grabbed the crease with any conviction, so could one (or both) be moved?
- Zemgus Girgensons - Countless Sabres have seen their names enter the rumour mill this season, including Evander Kane, Brian Gionta, Dmitry Kulikov and Cody Franson. What about Zemgus Girgensons, who has been subject to the odd trade rumour himself. He has yet to fulfil his potential in Buffalo, but there has been no shortage of teams interested in trading for him. As a pending RFA, Girgensons future in Buffalo could depend on how extension negotiations go.
- Tobias Enstrom - Was put on the market by Winnipeg last year. Although no deal came together, he's likely a player the Jets have to move at some point. With several key RFAs needing new deals this summer, the Jets may be proactive and move Enstrom this deadline.
- Valtteri Filppula - One of the less talked about Lightning forwards has come up in rumours periodically this past year or so. With the ongoing cap crunch the Lightning face and the increasing likelihood of being deadline sellers, Filppula could be on the move.
- Tyler Johnson - Another Bolts forward who's name is starting to crop up in rumours. Johnson is a pending RFA and with several other players needing new contracts, will have difficulty keeping everyone.
- Brendan Smith - The pending UFA might be one of the top blueliners available at the deadline - that is, if the Red Wings commit to being sellers. Smith's name has come up in trade talks, and his reasonable salary should make him a tantalizing option for contenders.
- Malcolm Subban - With the presence of Tuukka Rask and Zane McIntyre, the NHL potential for Subban seems limited in Boston. The Bruins management has been under pressure for the last few years and Subban has not been immune to trade rumours; do they finally move him? The Leafs and Coyotes have been rumoured in the past.
