The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, but the market for sellers seems to be slow-moving this year. Many teams are still in the playoff race and are not eager to offload key players. One such team is the Utah Hockey Club, which is determined to stay competitive and make a push for the playoffs. Despite having some attractive pieces like Nick Bjugstad and Alex Kerfoot, they are focused on keeping their team intact.
Utah’s reluctance to sell is partly due to their previous stockpiling of draft picks and their desire to build a strong team in their new market. They have been adding players like Mikhail Sergachev and John Marino to strengthen their roster and hope to continue adding rather than subtracting. General Manager Bill Armstrong is optimistic about the team’s prospects and wants to continue building in front of their fans.
Meanwhile, other teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets are facing tough decisions regarding pending free agents like Ivan Provorov. They are torn between making a playoff push and potentially losing valuable assets in free agency. The Los Angeles Kings are also looking to add a top-nine forward before the deadline to bolster their offense.
Seth Jones of the Chicago Blackhawks is another player generating trade interest. Teams see him as a valuable defenseman, but his hefty contract may complicate any potential deals. Teams like the Dallas Stars and Florida Panthers are rumored to be interested in acquiring Jones, but the complexities of his contract make a deadline trade uncertain.
Overall, the NHL trade market is heating up as the deadline approaches, with several key players and teams weighing their options. Fans can expect some movement as teams look to make the final push for the playoffs and strengthen their rosters for the future.
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