While there's plenty of hockey still to be played, it's never too early to look at some of the players potentially available this offseason. Here are 10 surprising names making the rounds in the rumour mill.
Max Pacioretty
Another name that's hard to believe is out there. Rumblings emerged this season suggesting the Habs were exploring the market their captain in hopes of finding defensive help. The roster's chronic scoring woes may have given the organization some pause. Nobody's been 100 percent sure what to expect in Montreal following the PK Subban blockbuster last summer.
Cody Eakin
The Stars depth at center may force them to make tough decisions with the expansion draft and stagnant cap looming this offseason. Those close to the organization believe the team will listen to offers this summer.
Matt Beleskey
Beleskey's name surfaced right before the deadline, so the rumour got a little bit lost in the trade deadline frenzy. The chippy forward hasn't lived up to the big contract he signed with the Bruins in 2015. The $3.8 million per season owed to him through 2020 will be hard to move.
Matt Dumba
The young blueliner with plenty of pedigree and upside is strange to see in the rumour mill, but the Wild truly are stacked on the blueline. The expansion draft could put pressure on Minny to make a trade, because they can't keep everyone.
Alex Galchenyuk
Gally's name has popped up in rumours for the last year or so. Despite being a fairly effective point producer, the Canadiens have hoped for more out of their 3rd overall selection in 2012. A decision could be looming on this front as patience wears thin.
Noah Hanifin
It truly is shocking to already see Hanifin's name out there in rumours, given the massive potential of the 5th overall pick in the 2015 draft. Carolina simply has too many defensemen in the system, and Hanifin has the value required to land a star forward. The Avalanche could be a match given the forward talent they're dangling on the market.
Ryan Spooner
The Bruins tune may have changed following a productive season from Spooner, but rumours that the pending RFA is being shopped haven't gone away. The Canucks, Hurricanes, Islanders and Sharks have varying degrees of interest. His future in Boston could hinge on contract negotiations this summer.
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