The NHL trade deadline is coming up. Here’s a look at the latest NHL trade rumors and which surprising players could be traded.
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, NHL trade rumors are spreading like a wildfire. With so many teams within striking distance of the postseason, it could lead to an unpredictable and wild finish. Depending on what happens, certain players could hit the market that no one expected to.
Everyone knows about the obvious trade candidates. The guys who will be a free agent after this season. Those guys getting traded is merely a formality. After all, it’s better to get something for someone than lose than for nothing.
These five players most likely won’t be traded, for one reason or another. But if they hit the market, it would really shake things up. Let’s take a look at five dark horse candidates who could be traded.
All stats are as of Jan. 29, 2019.
5. Mike Hoffman
The Florida Panthers are in a really interesting situation. They enter Jan. 29 10 points out of a postseason spot. However, the Panthers were in a very similar position one year ago and they nearly made the playoffs.
Considering their lack of success, it wouldn’t be shocking if general manager Dale Tallon shakes up the core a little bit. Nick Bjugstad is an intriguing trade candidate, but he’s not going to get them much. However, should Tallon be willing to listen to offers on Mike Hoffman, things could get really interesting.
He’s done a great job of rebuilding his value. Hoffman will still likely have the stigma of being an issue in the locker room thanks to his time with the Ottawa Senators. But at least now, teams are far more confident in what he brings to the table. The Panthers likely won’t be so dumb as to limit his market like the Panthers did either.
Should Hoffman be shopped around, he’d be the best goal scorer on the market. Since he’d be more than just a rental, the Panthers could collect a huge haul for him. Knowing how Tallon operates, the Panthers could be a losing streak away from pouring gasoline on the fire that is the trade market.