With the scheduled Olympic break taking place soon, NHL teams are attempting to see how they can improve their rosters before then. That’s where NHL rumors start to take center stage. Let’s focus on some possibilities right here.
When Panarin was confronted about his feelings of not getting a contract extension, he remained neutral. “It’s hard to say how I feel. I’m still confused, but the GM decided to go in a different direction. I’m okay with that. I’m a Ranger player right now, so I’ll play every game 100%.”
Panarin refused to elaborate on his situation.
It’s quite obvious that Panarin has been the New York Rangers’ most offensive threat. He has collected 204 goals and 400 assists in 478 games. His age is what holds him back since he will turn 35 in October. Panarin holds a no-movement clause in his expiring $11.64 million contract. He can refuse any trade, but he also knows that if he goes elsewhere, he will be paid.
The Rangers’ brain trust must start evaluating where to trade him, possibly. If he gets hurt, they run the risk of losing him for nothing. One such team that could use his scoring ability is the Los Angeles Kings. They have $11.5 million in cap space to attract Panarin to the West Coast.
The Blues are slowly moving out of playoff contention and are considering moving players to make room for younger assets and draft picks. The Blues rank fourth in the wild-card race in the Western Conference with a 19-21-8 record, good for 48 points. General manager Doug Armstrong is looking to retool the team in an effort to improve.
Schenn can provide veteran leadership as well as playoff experience. He can be linked to teams like the Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs, with teams looking for a veteran presence.
Kyrou is a high-end offensive talent, but has struggled this season (8-G, 12-A), making him a potential buy-low target for teams needing scoring. Interest from multiple teams, including the Anaheim Ducks, with talk he might waive his No-Trade Clause for a contender; could be a key piece in a bigger rebuild.
Faulk is a solid veteran defenseman who can strengthen a blue line for a playoff run, especially with a solid year offensively. He is seen as a likely veteran to move, potentially bringing back good assets as the Blues look to shift their defensive core.
With the trade freeze in effect during the Olympic break, February 4-22, Armstrong has to move quickly if he wishes to improve his roster.
Not only can Sherwood hit opposing players with regularity, but he can also get on the scorecard. He has tallied 17 goals and 23 points this season in 44 appearances. The Vancouver Canucks are at the start of a rebuild, as demonstrated by the trade of Quinn Hughes. That makes Sherwood a valuable forward to acquire for teams competing for a playoff spot.
The Rangers had some interest in adding Sherwood, but now that they are beginning a “re-tool” and won’t want a 30-year-old player. A player like Sherwood can be a valuable pick-up, especially for playoff-bound teams. He set a record with 462 hits last season, while also scoring 19 goals. That kind of physicality with scoring potential is difficult to find.
According to TSN insider Chris Johnston, “Sherwood certainly could be moved soon. Some of the teams around the league are hoping the price drops, though, in order to make that happen.”
The big fish Panarin may be difficult to move. While he could still demand a contract similar to his expiring pact, he won’t get a long-term deal at his age. Teams wanting scoring will definitely be checking in on the Breadman.
The Blues need to do something to shake things up. Thus far, this season has been a bust.
Sherwood is an interesting player. Some team will certainly trade for him and help them move towards a playoff spot. We just don’t know where yet.
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