NHL Trade Deadline looming large for teams fighting for playoffs as Taylor Hall could be scratched

Anthony Scultore |

Apr 5, 2021

The NHL Trade Deadline is a week away and it’s already having a major impact for both buyers and sellers. One prime example was the NJ Devils scratching one of their best players, Kyle Palmieri for “precautionary reasons”. Now it is believed that Taylor Hall could be the next scratch.

As teams fight for playoff spots and positioning, these moves loom large with potential huge implications.

Taylor Hall trade is looming; could be a healthy scratch

nhl rumors taylor hall — Mar 13, 2021; Buffalo, New York, USA; Buffalo Sabres left wing Taylor Hall (4) waits for the face-off during the second period against the Pittsburgh Penguins at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

According to top hockey insider Darren Dreger talks for Hall have escalated. The Sabres play tomorrow and he speculates a healthy scratch could be in the cards this week. It makes sense and is an age old practice in the NHL. Teams regularly pull/scratch players that they are close to trading in order to avoid any injury that could jeopardize the deal.

Will be interesting to see if Taylor Hall is in the Sabres lineup tomorrow. Kevyn Adams continues to have trade discussions. There’s a sense talks have escalated. Nothing imminent, but a precautionary pull this week could be telling.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) April 5, 2021

Of course; this means weaker lineup for sellers. Normally not a big deal but the Devils lost to the Capitals yesterday 5-4, would the result have been different if he played? Washington moved back into sole possession of first place in the East thanks to the win.

If Hall is pulled this week they play the Devils twice before facing the Capitals on Friday and Flyers on Sunday before the deadline. That could have meaningful implications to the Islanders and Penguins battling for first. As for the Flyers game; well I’m sure the Bruins and Rangers won’t be pleased as they fight for fourth.