NHL Trade Deadline predictions: Giroux with Avs, Rakell with NYR, Chiarot with Blues, and more
Anthony Scultore
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The trade talk around the league has been described as quiet. That can be taken ominously or as sign it’s the calm before the storm.
On Monday, the Anaheim Ducks may have got the ball rolling by trading pending UFA Josh Manson to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for a prospect and a second round pick on the 2023 draft. The Ducks will also retain 50% of Manson’s salary.
It’s also being reported that GMs are seeking 2023 first round picks over 2022 as this is perceived to be a weaker draft and less deep draft class.
So what moves are likely to happen next? Here’s a look at some of the top players on our Trade Bait Tracker with predictions for landing spots.
NHL Trade Deadline Predictions
Flyers send Claude Giroux to the Avalanche: The Avalanche have the cap space to make this deal with Gabriel Landeskog likely heading towards LTIR after knee surgery. Two other teams rumored in the mix are the Panthers and Blues. This connection between the Avs and Giroux have dated back months and they have the means to acquire him.
Trade Prediction: Claude Giroux and 50% salary retained in exchange for Avs’ Tyson Jost, 2023 1st rd pick, and 2023 2nd rd pick
Canadiens send Ben Chiarot to the Blues: The Blues are built for the playoffs and will be a tough out no matter who they face. The West is up for grabs if you can get by Colorado. St. Louis is in the market for a defenseman and will be willing to give up the asking price the Montreal Canadiens are asking for Chiarot.
Trade Prediction: Ben Chiarot and 50% salary retained for Blues 2022 1st rd pick, and a 2022 3rd rd pick.
Coyotes send Phil Kessel to the Penguins: There doesn’t appear to be a market for Phil Kessel since last season. I think that’s all about to change this week and a reunion with the Penguins is my favorite landing spot for the veteran.
Trade Prediction: Phil Kessel and 50% salary retained for Penguins 2022 2nd rd pick.
Kraken send Mark Giordano to the Flames: There is a market for Giordano out there, but he also has a no-move clause and the respect a 38 year-old veteran earns to call the shots. While GM Ron Francis would love to get a first round pick for him, he will accommodate his captain’s desire to return to his old team.
Trade Prediction: Mark Giordano and 50% salary retention for Flames first 2022 2nd rd pick
Ducks send Rickard Rakell to the Rangers: Rookie GM Chris Drury has moved on from costly J.T Miller to UFA rental Rickard Rakell. This will need to be a good deal for the Rangers, who are just entering their Stanley Cup winning window. Everyone knows that the Rangers need help on the right wing, so it will cost them.
Trade Prediction: Rickard Rakell for Rangers 2023 first round pick
