The NHL rumour mill is cranking up for the 2024-2025 season with several big names entering the mix.
1. Mikael Granlund, C, Sharks
The pending 2025 UFA should generate trade buzz all season as one of the bigger names in a middling crop of rentals. With the Sharks embarking on a much-needed youth movement, Granlund is probably out the door by the time the NHL trade deadline rolls around.
2. Cody Ceci, D, Sharks
Staying on the Sharks theme, recently acquired blueliner Cody Ceci will likely follow Granlund out of San Jose come trade deadline. Entering the final year of his $3.25 AAV deal, the 30 year old pending UFA should find himself on a contender again by early Spring.
3. Alec Martinez, D, Blackhawks
The veteran defenseman secured the bag on a one year pact in Chicago this offseason, and could be moved to the highest bidder come deadline. The Blackhawks aren't expected to be anywhere near a playoff spot this year, but even if they were, they'd probably still try to move out veteran assets. They may want to consider bubble wrapping their oft-injured asset down the stretch.
4. Anthony Mantha, W, Flames
Mantha's stay in Calgary could be brief after agreeing to a one year deal with the Flames this summer. The veteran winger has fetched decent returns in trade deadlines past, and the Flames are likely headed towards a firesale in the new year.
5. David Savard, D, Canadiens
The veteran blueliner likely doesn't fit into the young Habs' crowded blueline plans much beyond this season. Teams will be lining up for the grizzled shot blocker come NHL trade deadline season, presuming the Habs are sellers. He was almost traded at the 2024 deadline.
6. Anton Forsberg, G, Senators
The Sens explored the market on Forsberg this offseason, and could very well do so again. A team in need of goaltending depth should come calling if the Sens can't find their way back to playoff contention in 2025. They also have some goalie depth in the pipeline that could replace Forsberg's starts. The success or failure of extension talks with incumbent starter Linus Ullmark could be a factor in this as well.
7. Scott Laughton, C, Flyers
The Flyers' Swiss army knife forward has cropped up in NHL trade rumours for the past few seasons. He was almost dealt last year, but it feels like it might be time for Philly to cash in on the asset.
Darkhorse candidates:
I would look at the Rangers' Kaapo Kakko, Ducks' Trevor Zegras, Blue Jackets' Boone Jenner, Flames' Dan Vladar and Sharks' Logan Couture as other names to keep an eye on this season. Of course, there will be many more names that surface in the coming weeks and months. Stay tuned.
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