The NHL's top rental players leading up to trade deadline
St. Louis Blues defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk is the NHL’s longest-standing trade rumor subject. The Blues aren’t expected to re-sign him before he becomes an unrestricted free agent July 1.
However, the Blues own the Western Conference’s second-best record and Shattenkirk is their second-highest scorer and most productive power play quarterback. The Blues aren’t going to trade him for a draft pick and prospect.
If the Blues traded Shattenkirk, they would view it as a hockey trade where they would benefit today.
Here are five of the more traditional rental properties — players with expiring contracts — who could be dealt for draft picks and younger players before the NHL trade deadline on Feb. 28:
Center Martin Hanzal (Arizona Coyotes): There's buzz about Hanzal because he’s 6-6, 226 pounds and plays an overall game that is suited to compete against frontline players. He’s not a pure scorer, but he can contribute offensively. His $3.5 million cap hit will be affordable for most contenders.
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Defenseman Dennis Wideman (Calgary Flames): He has an offensive touch to go along with 779 games of experience. The Flames are fighting for a playoff spot and that will influence their decision. They probably have enough defensive depth to be comfortable moving Wideman, and they need more young players in the system.
Left wing Radim Vrbata (Arizona): With 17 points in 24 games and a $1 million cap hit,Vrbata has been one of the best free agent signings. He could strengthen a team’s secondary scoring. Vrbata is the Coyotes’ leading scorer, and he boasts 43 career shootout goals. A shootout artist comes in handy for teams fighting for a playoff spot.
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Goalie to be named later: The rental goalie teams would covet is Tampa Bay Lightning giant Ben Bishop. Andrei Vasilevskiy is Tampa Bay’s goalie of the future. But the Lightning have a chance to win it all this season, and the smarter play may be to keep Bishop for one last ride.
A rental goalie will be moved. The Dallas Stars, with their team save percentage ranking 29th, have to at least consider one. Ryan Miller (Vanouver Canucks) could draw some interest, and so could Thomas Greiss (New York Islanders) or one of the Philadelphia Flyers goalies (Steve Mason or Michal Neuvirth).
Right wing Jarome Iginla (Colorado Avalanche): At 39, he’s not the player he once was. But he can be an irascible presence on the ice and a calming influence in the dressing room. He’s a leader. Wouldn’t he be a desirable third-line fit for a contender? He only has three goals, but he scored 22 last season.
