Friday Four: What teams should consider selling this season?
S
Sportsnet
Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Sportsnet. Read the full original article here →
As the NHL season progresses, trade discussions heat up, prompting teams to reassess their rosters in anticipation of potential deals. The situation is particularly tense for teams longing for a playoff push while also weighing their future against the backdrop of a tightening trade market. Teams like the Nashville Predators and Vancouver Canucks could find themselves at a crossroads, needing to decide whether to sell off assets for rebuilding or proceed with their competitive aspirations.
Key players such as Matt Duchene of the Predators have ignited speculation around whether they might be trade candidates. As Nashville evaluates its standing in the competitive Western Conference, they face tough choices about veteran players who could fetch value on the market. Conversely, the Canucks, with star players like Elias Pettersson, must evaluate their stance amid ongoing struggles and rumors swirling about potential trades.
The decision to sell is not just about the present but also fears surrounding long-term strategies. The Florida Panthers have been unexpectedly disappointing, raising the question of whether the team should explore trading players like Sam Bennett to initiate a rebuild. This junction may lead teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and others to pivot their strategies and embrace change as they deliberate over selling pieces at the deadline.
Meanwhile, teams looking to bolster their chances – perhaps the Toronto Maple Leafs – might turn their attention to established stars with contracts that warrant consideration in larger trades. The next few weeks will reveal which teams decide it's time to cut losses and how prospective players might reshape the playoff landscape as the trade deadline approaches.
Key players such as Matt Duchene of the Predators have ignited speculation around whether they might be trade candidates. As Nashville evaluates its standing in the competitive Western Conference, they face tough choices about veteran players who could fetch value on the market. Conversely, the Canucks, with star players like Elias Pettersson, must evaluate their stance amid ongoing struggles and rumors swirling about potential trades.
The decision to sell is not just about the present but also fears surrounding long-term strategies. The Florida Panthers have been unexpectedly disappointing, raising the question of whether the team should explore trading players like Sam Bennett to initiate a rebuild. This junction may lead teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and others to pivot their strategies and embrace change as they deliberate over selling pieces at the deadline.
Meanwhile, teams looking to bolster their chances – perhaps the Toronto Maple Leafs – might turn their attention to established stars with contracts that warrant consideration in larger trades. The next few weeks will reveal which teams decide it's time to cut losses and how prospective players might reshape the playoff landscape as the trade deadline approaches.