In our trade bits, we go quickly of potential trades likely brewing or talks surrounding certain teams and players susceptible of being traded.
Fleury’s Landing Spots
When the announcement of Marc-Andre Fleury’s decision to waive his no-movement clause back in February came out on Sunday, the rumor mill began to spin even more. There is no doubt, Fleury is probably the biggest name available to the golden Knights. Yesterday, Sportsnet reported 5 possible destination Fleury could end up. Those destinations are: Las Vegas (obviously), Calgary, Winnipeg, Philadelphia, New York Islanders. Many think Philadelphia is a long shot because of the rivalry but a quick turnaround by the Golden Knights could have Fleury back in Pennsylvania.
Devils dangling their 1st selection
The New Jersey Devils are rumored to be dangling their first choice based on their immediate needs. One of them being a top four defenceman. Many rumors circulating are saying general manager Ray Shero is contemplating the possibility of going down a couple spots at the NHL Entry Draft so they can pick the defenseman they want and obtain an outstanding return for the 1st pick. The Canucks are also rumored wanting to go up further in the draft while the Dallas Stars at number three are also looking to offer the third selection for an offer they can’t refuse.
Winnipeg interested in Raanta
The Winnipeg Jets are looking for help between the pipes and could be in on Marc Andre Fleury’s through the Golden Knights. But a plan B for the Jets may the acquisition of Antti Raanta from the New York Rangers. At 28, Raanta is like another Ben Bishop or Cam Talbot who started slowly as a backup, but has become a bonafide goaltender behind Henrik Lundqvist. Raanta is looking for a no.1 position and has the number to support his request.
Originally signed by the Chicago Blackhawks as an undrafted free agent in 2013, Raanta was acquired by the Rangers in exchange for Ryan Haggerty .
In 2016-2017, Raanta recorded 16 wins with a 2.26 goal-against-average and a .922 save percentage in 30 starts for the Rangers.
Nathan Beaulieu in trade talks
The Montreal Canadiens are looking at trading defenseman Nathan Beaulieu before the Friday deadline for resigning restricted agent and avoid their exposure to the expansion draft. His sporadic play last season has made Beaulieu expandable and general manager is hoping to get something in exchange for the young defenceman.
Radio host and former player Georges Laraque stated on Monday that Beaulieu will be traded this week. Laraque who is still connected with some players, the NHLPA and some agents reported the Beaulieu rumor on his Montreal local radio show on 91.9FM.
Bergevin was not impressed by Beaulieu’s performance throughout the season and made it clear by his post-season press conference when asked about Beaulieu’s future with the team. Beaulieu was not dressed for the last game by the Canadiens against the New Rangers in the 2016-2017 playoffs.
