Did you know the first-ever NHL trade deadline took place 43 years ago on Mar. 11, 1980? Interestingly, over the years, numerous teams have gone on to shape the future of their franchises with moves orchestrated on this day.
Whether a team loads up for a serious run at the Stanley Cup or stockpile draft picks for the future, the days’ events receive all-day coverage from major Canadian sports networks like a national holiday.
Surprisingly, there have been a few blockbuster deals this season, like Ryan O’Reilly and Noel Acciari going to the Toronto Maple Leafs. However, with the clock ticking down to the Mar. 3, 2023, 3:00 pm EST deadline, some of the league’s top-name players still have a lot of uncertainty. With that, let’s dive into our five bold NHL trade deadline predictions.
Chicago Blackhawks retain both Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews
When browsing the list of potential players on the verge of being traded, there are two multi-time Stanley Cup champions, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. Although Toews recently revealed he’s dealing with extended COVID-19 symptoms and will remain out of action, the Blackhawks announced they would not trade their captain this season.
Since opening night, the hockey community has been abuzz to find out what Kane will do since he’s a pending free agent. Ultimately, the former Art Ross winner has built a legacy that allows him to dictate his future.
He had not expressed interest in moving away from the Blackhawks except for voicing his frustrations when the New York Rangers acquired top scorer (Vladimir Tarasenko).
Although he never publicly said it, Kane seemed interested in joining the Rangers but missed out on the opportunity. With that team off the board, many insiders think the Edmonton Oilers, Vegas Golden Knights, and Dallas Stars are front runners. However, it would not surprise anyone if Kane stayed in Chicago and waited to test free agency in July.Â
Tampa Bay Lightning make another deadline deal to surprise everyone (again)
The Tampa Bay Lightning won the Stanley Cup in 2020 and 2021 before losing in the Final in 2022. Every year, the team maxes out its salary cap and, with some injuries off the books, exceeds the limits.
Additionally, the Lightning does not go out and acquire big names; instead, they focus their efforts on impact players who give them an edge in the playoffs.Â
According to CapFriendly.com, the team has zero dollars available in cap space. However, it will be no surprise when they orchestrate a deal to improve their team without spending money.
Although the team has no significant holes in the lineup, it is interesting that former player, Luke Schenn, is available and was a key member of their back-to-back championships. Currently, the defenseman is making just $850k, a number an accountant could work magic with for the reigning conference champions.
Related: 3 potential trade fits for Jakob Chychrun ahead of NHL trade deadline
San Jose Sharks’ new GM Mike Grier steers the team into a rebuild
For 19 years, the Sharks had one general manager, Doug Wilson, who retired in July 2022, handing the reigns to a former player turned executive, Mike Grier. Furthermore, in his first year on the job, the Sharks have had a disastrous season despite their best player, Erik Karlsson, approaching 100 points as a defenseman.
Interestingly, Grier has two highly coveted players in his lineup, Timo Meier (31 goals) and Karlsson (73 points). Moreover, the duo makes $17.5 million this season, with Meier an unrestricted free agent this summer and Karlsson on the books for four more seasons.
Although these two players would never end up in the same destination at the deadline, they have been intriguing stories to follow all season. Additionally, neither appears to be part of the rebuild moving forward. However, the pressure will be on Grier to get enough to warrant moving critical club members.
Grier may need help finding the proper suitors, solely based on financial reasons, which could lead to both players remaining in the lineup. However, fans should expect to see them in new jerseys after the Mar. 3 deadline because a team with playoff aspirations will overpay in the final minutes.
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The two Alberta teams, Edmonton Oilers & Calgary Flames, stand pat
The Oilers employ Connor McDavid, arguably the best player of his generation, but have zero championships to show for it. Despite jaw-dropping performances, the Oilers still lose a lot and have shady defense and goaltending.
Furthermore, the team needs more cap space, currently sitting at the limit, handcuffing general manager Ken Holland’s abilities to bring in any reinforcements. Therefore, even though there is talk of Kane and Karlsson going to the Oilers, it isn’t very likely.
Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames had a fantastic summer with significant roster upgrades. However, they need help to stay in the playoff race as a wildcard team. Although they have a million dollars to utilize, the dressing room seems toxic right now, as the head coach and his star players are on different pages.
Ultimately, neither team will make any significant changes in the next two weeks and will continue to do their best with the tools at their disposal.
Related: NHL power rankings 2022-’23: Carolina Hurricanes rolling, Vegas keeps sinking
NHL fans should expect lots of action on trade deadline day; however, they should lower expectations
Usually, the NHL trade deadline is one of the most anticipated days of the hockey calendar. Moreover, fans expect shocking headlines from the day, with big names trading jerseys in an average of 30 deals annually.
Right now, many players are available, although most come from losing teams. Nevertheless, the contenders will boldly move a player to make a deal to win right now—meanwhile, the bottom feeders are jockeying for positions in the draft lottery.Â
In the end, this year’s deadline will have a few surprises, but fans should not expect over 30 trades. Moreover, many teams want to make moves; however, the salary cap will prevent a handful of them from acquiring the players they want and need.
Related: NHL trade rumors: Latest buzz for 2023 trade deadline