Matt Duchene is arguably the top player available in the trade market this summer. Here are the 10 rumoured contenders.
Darkhorses
Toronto Maple Leafs
Rumoured to have asked on several Avalanche at the deadline, including Duchene and Landeskog.
Chicago Blackhawks
The Blackhawks made a lot of inquiries on forwards at the deadline, and a ton of names leaked. Among those names was Matt Duchene. Seems unlikely given the Blackhawks cap situation.
Pittsburgh Penguins
Came up near the deadline as a team that was interested but unsure how to make a trade happen.
Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks are fairly set down the middle, but popped up as a possible destination during the regular season.
Middle of the pack
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Jackets have a bit of a depth issue down the middle, and those close to the team think Duchene could be a target this offseason.
Nashville Predators
The Preds have kicked tires on a variety of elite centers for several years. This summer, they might finally make that move.
St. Louis Blues
Lost a big piece of their center ice when David Backes departed last summer. Could use another top flight centerman and/or winger.
Mystery team
If the San Jose Sharks don't re-sign Joe Thornton and/or Patrick Marleau, might they use that cap space to go after Duchene? They're a team that always lurks in the weeds. Don't count out the Golden Knights either.
Current Frontrunners
New York Islanders
The Isles want to prove to John Tavares that it's worth his while sticking around in Long Island (or Brooklyn or wherever they end up), and adding a piece like Matt Duchene might do the trick. The Isles showed interest in Duchene at the trade deadline, but nothing got done.
Ottawa Senators
Have shown interest for over a year and were one of the first teams to inquire last season. The asking price was too much for the Sens at the deadline, but the offseason is another story.
Carolina Hurricanes
Made a push for Duchene at the deadline. They have the assets the Avs desperately need: young defensemen.
