Top 20 players fans must know about ahead of the 2024 NHL trade deadline

The 2024 NHL trade deadline season is in full swing following a big move that occurred last night involving Chris Tanev. Here are 20 more names to know.

Jan 16, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames defenseman Noah Hanifin (55) takes to the ice / Brett Holmes-USA TODAY Sports

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David Savard would serve a team in need of a stay-at-home player with top-four potential

Few defensemen on this list know how to get in front of pucks better than David Savard, as he has 103 blocks and counting for the Montreal Canadiens this season in just 37 games. That’s nearly 2.8 per contest, and any playoff-bound team looking for a blueliner willing to stop a few shots from reaching the crease should try to bring him in.

Savard is still willing to finish checks against opponents, as he also has 46 hits on the year, and when healthy, he can offer top-four minutes. He would be especially valuable for teams looking to keep him on for more than just the remainder of the season, as his contract doesn’t expire until 2024-25.

Expect teams not looking to go all-in this season to be strong contenders for Savard, especially those looking for help when they are shorthanded, as he has logged 122.3 minutes in his 37 contests this season. Despite playing for a rebuilding hockey team, he continues to be a strong asset at 5-on-5, with the Canadiens enjoying a solid 90.4 save percentage when he’s helping to box out opponents.

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