Quick update here as the NHL has a light schedule this week leading into the All-Star break.
Even though the race for playoff spots is still tight and some teams have not relegated themselves into being sellers, the Anaheim Ducks are not one of those clubs. While the name of goalie John Gibson continues to get mentioned in connection with clubs with chronic goaltending issues, the names you will hear bandied about before March 8 are Adam Henrique and to a lesser extent Ilya Lyubushkin.
Henrique is 33, but is having a solid offensive year (15 goals, 17 assists in 48 games), and would be a fit as a second-line center. His name has been mentioned in connection with Vancouver, but wherever he is moved, Ducks GM Pat Verbeek will need to retain a chunk of his $5.825 million salary to fit under some team’s cap and to increase his return.
Lyubushkin is physical, right-handed, and tough. All attractive aspects for a playoff bound club. His $2.75 million AAV is workable as well.
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— Michael Augello (@MikeInBuffalo) January 5, 2021