The NHL trade market has been unusually quiet this season. Sure, we’ve seen a few minor moves – like the Oilers picking up Connor Ingram and the Canucks grabbing Lukas Reichel – but nothing that’s really shaken things up.
There’s a good reason for this slow start. Teams are struggling with the new playoff salary cap rules, and many clubs aren’t ready to throw in the towel just yet.
But here’s the thing: December usually kicks things into gear. Last year, we saw some big names start moving around the holidays – guys like Jacob Trouba and Brad Marchand found new homes as teams got serious about making changes.
So who’s likely to move this month? Let’s break it down.
The Calgary Flames might be the first to make waves. At 9-15-4, they’re six points out of playoff contention. Rasmus Andersson and Nazem Kadri could be prime trade bait, though the team’s recent 4-2-1 stretch might make them hesitate.
Goalie trades are always interesting to watch. The Oilers are desperate for help between the pipes, and they’re not alone. The Red Wings, Canadiens, Blues, and Maple Leafs all might be shopping for netminders.
Here’s a name to watch: Yegor Chinakhov of the Columbus Blue Jackets. He asked for a trade last summer, and he’s been putting up solid numbers despite limited ice time. Some team might take a chance on this young talent.
Ryan O’Reilly looks miserable in Nashville, and the Predators are far enough out of the playoff picture to start selling. With teams like Montreal and New Jersey needing help at center, O’Reilly could be on the move soon.
The most likely trade might involve Kiefer Sherwood from Vancouver. The Canucks are already making noise about moving veterans, and Sherwood’s value may never be higher. He started hot with nine goals in 12 games, though he’s cooled off lately.
Teams are circling, and it only takes one big trade to get the market moving. December could get interesting.
The next few weeks will tell us a lot about who’s really in the playoff hunt and who’s ready to start planning for next year. For some of these players, Christmas might come with a change of address.
