NHL Rumors: Flames untouchables, Rickard Rakell trade deadline steal, and more
Anthony Scultore
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The Flames have made a big move by firing Geoff Ward and bringing in hockey royalty in Darryl Sutter. You have to think that Sutter is coming in with a vision and make-up Calgary may not have yet.
Trade are coming.
NHL Rumors: Who are the Flames untouchables?
Darryl Sutter likes forwards with attitude. That’s why I think one of the immediate beneficiaries of this move will be Sam Bennett. Now, does that mean he won’t get traded? No, but playing for Sutter could change his mind and that of the Flames.
Now who are the untouchables? Over at The Athletic, Hailey Salvian believes there are several.
- Jacob Markstrom
- Chris Tanev
- Matthew Tkachuk
- Elias Lindholm
- Andrew Mangiapane
Notice who wasn’t on the list? Yes, Trade Rumor and DGH Trade Bait List favorite Johnny Gaudreau. Whether he is moved by this deadline remains to be seen, but an offseason deal seems likely.
NHL Rumors: Rickard Rakell interesting trade bait
Rickard Rakell is a 27 year-old forward on a bad Ducks team. He is being used as a wing but can play center. His cap hit is $3.789 million and he has one year remaining on his contract. This means he’s not a rental and a very intriguing player available on the market.
It sounds like the Ducks may try and rebuild and Rakell may no longer fit into their plans. While he’s struggling, along with the rest of Anaheim this season Rakell can put up points.
Prior to this season, Rakell was averaging .73 points per game over the last three years and would bolster a lot of team’s top six. He’s a name to watch for next month as the Ducks would likely get a young roster player and prospect/pick back for him.
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