Brent Burns

Brent Burns celebrates his 41st birthday today as the league's oldest active skater, still lacing them up for the Avalanche on that one-year gamble from last summer. The former Norris winner, with his wild beard and offensive flair intact, defies the miles logged since his 2003 debut - the last lockout-era vet standing after Fleury hung 'em up. GMs around the league watch closely as Colorado bets on his blue-line bombs and locker-room mojo to chase another Cup run.

Mario Ferraro has emerged as one of the most intriguing trade candidates on the market, and Colorado is reportedly circling the San Jose defenseman with serious intent. The hard-nosed top-four blueliner represents exactly the kind of impactful left-shot defenseman the Avalanche's blueline desperately needs, and pairing him with former Sharks veteran Brent Burns could transform their second pairing.

Brent Burns, the grizzled vet chasing his 22nd NHL season, lands back in San Jose's orbit amid whispers of a sentimental return that could cap his Iron Man streak. Grier eyes that open retention spot from the old Hurricanes trade like a loaded gun at the deadline, perfect for flipping salary in a multi-team deal to stockpile picks.