Wow. Today it feels like the trade deadline just shifted gears in a huge way....so let's get it started...
On Andrew Ladd....
In many ways it feels like Andrew Ladd is the most important cog in the trade deadline. Florida and Chicago are still in on Andrew Ladd even though the price is quite high, but don't discount Dallas and to a lesser extent the Rangers on this one. The prices are so high because there are more than a few teams in on this.
On Yakupov....
The Montréal Canadiens surprised everyone last night with a really big win versus the Washington Capitals, but the bigger surprise could be to come I am told. The Montréal Canadiens are first in line for Yakupov. I will definitely be keeping a close eye on this one.
Tampa and Boston HUGE deal?
OK this one sort of comes out of nowhere, but late last night a source out of Western Canada told me he heard a deal between Tampa and Boston could be in the works which would "swap problems." Jonathan Drouin would end up in Boston and Tampa would get Louis Eriksson, a prospect and one of the players Boston took from the three first-round picks the Bruins had last year.
One of the more interesting aspects of the sudden rush to trade Jonathan Drouin is believed to be a fading optimism regarding Steven Stamkos returning next year. I don't know if I am buying into that yet, but the belief is Tampa could load up big time for the playoffs this year to make a final run with Stamkos.
On the Hawks...
There's also rumor out there that the Blackhawks have interest in Vrbata. This was heavy on the rumor mill last week, but is starting to pick up in intensity.
A reader pointed out that TSN is reporting the Hawks being interested in both Vrbata and Hamhuis...
Hearing that #Blackhawks have serious interest in Hamhuis & Vrbata. No word yet on whether Hamhuis is willing to waive NTC. #Canucks
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