3. Winnipeg Jets
The Winnipeg Jets are looking to make their roster a bit more balanced this offseason. Star forwards Nikolaj Ehlers and Patrik Laine have both found their names in recent trade rumors. This is because the Jets have some holes to fill on their blueline and down the middle. Trading one of those two players could help them fill those holes.
If the Flyers want to make a hockey trade with Gostisbehere, the Jets are their best option. They’d have to toss in some additional players and picks if they want to go hunting for Laine or Ehlers, though. But there are some other interesting names on the Jets, including Jack Roslovic.
The Jets would like Gostisbehere for several reasons. First and foremost, he has a recent history of being a top-four defenseman and he has a pulse. Those two facts alone should intrigue the Jets. Secondly, he has the potential to be a huge difference maker. This year’s UFA class of defensemen is filled with solid options, but very few of them are capable of doing what Gostisbehere can.
Here’s what a potential trade could look like, though the Flyers might have to add a little bit more. It should at least get things rolling, though.
The Jets have a very high asking price for Laine, but teams haven’t ponied up for it yet. If the Jets lower their asking price, this could make sense. Though I imagine Winnipeg would love to have someone like Morgan Frost.