With the March 8 trade deadline rapidly approaching, NHL rumors are intensifying, signaling potential moves and speculations across the league. As time dwindles for general managers to fine-tune their lineups for a Stanley Cup Playoff push, the trade market is heating up. Today’s NHL rumors hone in on the Winnipeg Jets and the Buffalo Sabres, shedding light on possible trade scenarios and player acquisitions.
All NHL rumors are derived from original sources and remain subject to change.
Winnipeg Jets
Rumor: Ken Wiebe and Mike McIntyre of The Winnipeg Free Press offer insights into the Jets’ trade deadline plans and potential moves.
The NHL trade deadline is less than a week away.
Who might be on the #NHLJets radar?
In our latest edition of Dump & Chase, @WiebesWorld and I look at 8 potential targets in detail, plus another 8 skaters to keep an eye on.https://t.co/OZ8SmXlWlS
— Mike McIntyre (@mikemcintyrewpg) March 2, 2024
Analysis: General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff kicked off the trade talks by acquiring Sean Monahan from the Montreal Canadiens. Despite this acquisition, speculation lingers regarding the Jets’ further maneuvering before the deadline. While teams like the Dallas Stars and Vancouver Canucks have already made significant roster improvements, the question arises: does Cheveldayoff have additional cards up his sleeve?
Wiebe and McIntyre suggest that the Jets have shown interest in Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Sean Walker for some time. However, the Flyers remain in contention for a playoff spot, raising uncertainties about their willingness to part with key players mid-season.
Additionally, forwards such as Anthony Mantha and Reilly Smith have surfaced in trade discussions, potentially offering viable options for the Jets. With the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins possibly transitioning to seller roles, opportunities may arise for strategic player acquisitions.
The Jets may also contemplate pursuing prominent names like Pavel Buchnevich, Jordan Eberle, or Vladimir Tarasenko. However, the feasibility of these acquisitions hinges on the Jets’ available assets and trade negotiation dynamics.
Despite the Jets’ defensive prowess, there’s a recognized need for offensive firepower. While defensive strength is essential, diversifying scoring options could significantly bolster the Jets’ competitiveness, particularly in close-scoring matchups.
Buffalo Sabres
Rumor: Michael Augello of the Hockey News suggests that the Sabres are inclined to accommodate Erik Johnson’s desires at the upcoming trade deadline.
Analysis: Once again, the Buffalo Sabres find themselves on the outskirts of contention as the trade deadline looms. Consequently, the team is poised to offload several veteran players with expiring contracts, including Johnson, who inked a one-year deal with the club last summer, earning $3.25 million. Recognizing Johnson’s value, Buffalo anticipates securing assets in exchange for the seasoned defenseman.
While the Sabres have exhibited improved performance since the All-Star Break, it appears insufficient to rekindle playoff aspirations. Johnson has expressed openness to a potential trade if approached by General Manager Kevyn Adams, indicating a desire to contribute to a contending team.
Having navigated similar situations in the past, Johnson, a native of Bloomington, Minnesota, acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming days. Despite clichĂ©d sentiments, the veteran defenseman remains focused on taking each day as it comes. With his experience and defensive acumen, Johnson could offer valuable depth to a contending club’s defensive lineup.
Another disappointing season in Western New York heralds forthcoming changes. However, players like Johnson could facilitate the reinforcement of contending teams come spring. Despite speculation, Johnson’s departure from Buffalo remains uncertain.
