In lieu of some vaguely interesting hockey stories that you can likely find yourself, Afternoon Delight will take a break today to bring you five players that we would like to see traded at or before the Deadline.
Eric Cole – Edmonton Oilers
Though he has been better lately, I get the feeling that there is a bit of a disconnect there between the older guys and the younger guys. Is it worthwhile to keep Cole to try for the 8th seed if you lose him for nothing in the summer? Possible destinations could include Pittsburgh for Whitney (or as part of a larger package to pry Staal out of there), Boston for prospects or even back to Carolina for Tuomo Ruutu. Keep in mind that we may not see him go to one of Edmonton’s typical dance partners now that Steve Tambellini is calling (?) the shots. If possible, can Edmonton throw in Steve Staios and Ethan (2-Minute) Moreau?
Marion Gaborik – Minnesota Wild
Even though Gaborik is hurt, he is apparently due for a physical on March 3rd, one day before the deadline. Its time for Minnesota to cut bait on this guy, as they haven’t made any noise with him in the lineup and they can still likely get a decent return for him. He is clearly not a favourite of Coach Lemaire, so why not trade him for some guys who would fit in. Dangle him at New Jersey to pry Jay Pandolfo out of the press box. Seriously, any team with cap room and the need for a scorer could be willing to take a shot at him. Vancouver has suggested that Sundin will be their big splash, but its long been rumoured that they covet Gaborik.
Jay Bouwmeester – Florida Panthers
I realize Florida is right in the thick of things in the Eastern Conference, and could well finish right in the middle of the playoff pack. However, I like to think of this as a situation whereby the Panthers can rely on their defensive depth to carry them to the postseason while adding a number of assets for the mobile blueliner. A young guy who can log big minutes, Bouwmeester would undoubtedly fetch a decent price at the deadline, even with his impending UFA status. A Florida team with some added depth and firepower could make some noise next year. A number of teams would likely pony up that depth, Toronto and Edmonton included.
Johan Franzen – Detroit Red Wings
Ok, we admit that this one might not happen, or should we say likely won’t happen. The Red Wings have said that they will try to retain both Hossa and Franzen, all the while admitting that it would mean others would have to go this summer. But since Detroit is wily, why not trade Franzen for one or two marginal players with upside and cheap contracts. History has shown that other teams’ spare parts can excel in Detroit, so why not make the move?
Chris Pronger – Anaheim Ducks
With the Ducks teetering on the brink of missing the playoffs, it seems that Chris Pronger may find himself and his sweetheart contract shipped out at the deadline. Expect serious interest to be shown in the blueliner, a proven playoff performer, and don’t be surprised if he is moved for cents on the dollar. If he is moved, look for it to be to a serious cup contender.
