5 under the radar names that could be acquired at the trade deadline

Alexandre Carrier may be an option for someone looking for defense

Defensemen are always a hot commodity around the NHL trade deadline. With the Calgary tandem of Noah Hanifin and Chris Tanev getting all the attention, Alexandre Carrier is a name that should be talked about more for a potential Stanley Cup-contending team that needs a legitimate top-four defensive-minded defenseman.

At just 27 years old, Carrier is in the prime of his career and will be a free agent when the season is over. Although not much of a point producer, Carrier is a good facilitator and reliable in his own end to make smart shutdown plays.

Although Nashville is within striking distance of a playoff spot, it would not be a surprise if they choose to sell some pending free agents as they continue with their competitive retool.

The return value for Carrier will not be too much for Nashville but a contending team that misses out on Hanifin, Tanev, or even Philadelphia defenseman Sean Walker, could look towards the Predators in trading for Carrier for as little as a 2nd round pick.