The 2024 NHL offseason is shaping up to be thrilling, with several high-profile players potentially on the move. Teams are looking to strengthen their rosters and take advantage of the increased salary cap, leading to exciting trade possibilities.
- Several big-name players, including Andrew Mangiapane and Arthur Kaliyev, are generating significant trade buzz as the NHL draft approaches.
- The salary cap’s rise to $87.7 million will likely spur a flurry of trade activities involving high-profile players.
- Teams like the Montreal Canadiens and New Jersey Devils want to make bold moves to enhance their rosters.
Anticipating Major Trades at the 2024 NHL Draft in Las Vegas
The NHL draft is one of the busiest and most important days of the year for the league. Teams are not only looking to pick young players who could become stars in the future but are also trying to improve their teams right away through trades.
The 2024 NHL Draft, set for June 28-29 in Las Vegas, is expected to be very active. The salary cap is likely to increase from $83.5 million to $87.7 million for the 2024-25 season.
Andrew Mangiapane’s Rising Trade Interest
Andrew Mangiapane of the Calgary Flames is becoming a hot topic in trade discussions.
As he enters the final season of his contract and heads towards unrestricted free agency (UFA) in 2025, the Flames are open to dealing players with expiring contracts, evident from their recent trades involving Elias Lindholm, Noah Hanifin, Nikita Zadorov, and Chris Tanev.
Mangiapane had a solid season with 14 goals, 40 points, and a plus-7 rating in 75 games. His standout performance in 2021-22, with 35 goals and 55 points in 82 games, hints at his potential as a significant scoring threat.
Arthur Kaliyev Seeking a Fresh Start
Los Angeles Kings’ Arthur Kaliyev has been at the center of trade rumors, especially after his disappointing season with just seven goals and 15 points in 51 games.
The 22-year-old right winger, who was scratched multiple times and benched during the playoffs, is reportedly seeking a trade.
Kings GM Rob Blake acknowledged Kaliyev’s struggles and the need for a resolution. Kaliyev, with his potential as an effective middle-six forward, will likely attract interest, particularly from teams in a rebuilding phase.
Tanner Jeannot and Tampa Bay’s Cap Crunch
The Tampa Bay Lightning face a challenging situation with their limited cap space and several UFAs, including Steven Stamkos. Tanner Jeannot, who had a rough season with just seven goals and seven assists, emerges as a prime trade candidate to alleviate their cap issues.
Despite his recent struggles, Jeannot’s past success and reputation as a gritty forward make him appealing to teams looking for toughness and scoring depth. His $2.665-million cap hit and 16-team no-trade list, however, add complexity to any potential trade.
Trevor Zegras to the Montreal Canadiens?
Trevor Zegras of the Anaheim Ducks, after a challenging third season limited by injuries and contract negotiations, has been linked to trade rumors. The Montreal Canadiens, seeking to bolster their scoring depth, have shown interest.
Zegras, a proven scorer and friend of Canadiens’ Cole Caufield, could thrive under coach Martin St. Louis. The Ducks will demand a significant return, possibly including Montreal’s first-round pick and a young defenseman like David Reinbacher or Logan Mailloux.
Filip Hronek for Martin Nečas
The Carolina Hurricanes and Vancouver Canucks each face tricky RFA situations. Hurricanes winger Martin Nečas and Canucks defenseman Filip Hronek are both seeking substantial raises. This scenario could lead to an old-fashioned one-for-one hockey trade.
Nečas, desiring top-six minutes, could find a better role in Vancouver, while Hronek could bolster Carolina’s defensive depth. Previous trade discussions involving these players lay the groundwork for a potential deal this summer.
Nikolaj Ehlers for Ryan Pulock
The Winnipeg Jets’ Nikolaj Ehlers and New York Islanders’ Ryan Pulock are both prime candidates for a trade. Ehlers, with one year left on his contract and a 10-team no-trade clause, could be traded to bolster Winnipeg’s defense.
Pulock, with a similar cap hit and a full no-trade clause, could pair well with Jets’ Josh Morrissey. However, convincing Pulock to waive his clause and ensuring Ehlers isn’t on the Islanders’ no-trade list are key challenges.
Linus Ullmark for Jakob Chychrun
Boston Bruins’ Linus Ullmark and Ottawa Senators’ Jakob Chychrun are both intriguing trade targets. Ullmark, with a year left on his contract, could be moved to a team like the Senators, who need a reliable starting goaltender.
Chychrun, also nearing free agency, could strengthen the Bruins’ defense. The Senators may need to offer Chychrun and additional picks to land Ullmark, assuming he isn’t on their no-trade list.
Jacob Markström to the New Jersey Devils
Calgary Flames’ Jacob Markström, linked to the New Jersey Devils, could be on the move this summer. Despite remaining with the Flames post-trade deadline, his future is uncertain.
The Devils, seeking to address goaltending issues, are revisiting trade discussions. Markström, with a $6 million cap hit, could command a first-round pick, a top prospect, and a promising young player in return.
Mitch Marner for Juuse Saros
The Nashville Predators’ trade of Ryan McDonagh back to the Tampa Bay Lightning sparked rumors about acquiring Mitch Marner from the Toronto Maple Leafs. While Predators GM Barry Trotz dismissed these as rumors, the idea remains tantalizing.
For such a deal, Marner would need to agree to move to Nashville. With both players eligible for unrestricted free agency next summer and the Predators having ample cap space, this trade, though unlikely, could be the summer’s blockbuster.
Anticipating Key Moves in the 2024 NHL Offseason
The 2024 NHL offseason is set to be very exciting, with many big-name players potentially being traded. Teams are looking to improve their rosters and take advantage of the increased salary cap.
Andrew Mangiapane, Arthur Kaliyev, Tanner Jeannot, Trevor Zegras, Filip Hronek, Martin Nečas, Nikolaj Ehlers, Ryan Pulock, Linus Ullmark, Jakob Chychrun, Jacob Markström, and Mitch Marner are some of the players to watch.
These trades could significantly change the teams and the league. As the NHL draft approaches, keep an eye on these possible moves.
