NHL Trade Rumors: 5 bold trade deadline predictions

The first pieces of the NHL trade deadline have fallen into place. Taking a look at the recent NHL trade rumors, here are five bold predictions for what should be a crazy weekend. 

The NHL trade deadline is on Monday, Feb. 25. Thus far, the action as far as NHL trade rumors has been slow. However, with Matt Duchene being traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets, things should pick up very soon. Most of the best players are still on the market. There are buyers looking to counter what their rivals have done and will do. Likewise, there are sellers looking to acquire assets.

This time of the year is when fans see general managers be bold. Whether or not that’s a good thing is up for debate. But you’ll see general managers part with valuable prospects and draft picks in an effort to improve their team. You’ll also see general managers trade a valuable player for better future assets.

With all of this in mind, here are five bold predictions for the 2019 NHL trade deadline.  Most of this stuff probably won’t happen. But it sure would be fun if they did.

5. Mark Stone Goes To The Wild, Wild West

The top rental player on the market is Mark Stone of the Ottawa Senators. By trading Duchene, the Sens have pretty much confirmed they’re doing a fire sale. Yes, that includes Stone, who’s been one of the best forwards in the NHL over the past three seasons.

Even though Ottawa refuses to deal within the Atlantic Division, the market for him has built itself. The Winnipeg Jets, Nashville Predators, and Calgary Flames have all been linked to Stone. A bidding war should ensue, as each team doesn’t want their rival to get him.

The Senators got a pretty solid haul for Duchene, especially if he re-signs with the Blue Jackets. But that return should dwarf the monumental return Ottawa gets for Stone.

Prediction: Stone gets traded to Nashville and signs an extension.

Stay updated with the latest NHL trade rumors by checking out our Rumors page.