Interest in Seattle Kraken Forward Eeli Tolvanen
Teams have reportedly inquired with the Seattle Kraken regarding pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) forward Eeli Tolvanen. While the Kraken are currently focused on making the playoffs and potentially adding to their roster, they would only consider moving Tolvanen, or any other pending UFAs, if they received an exceptionally high offer.
Potential Interest in Philadelphia Flyers Defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen
Given Rasmus Ristolainen’s remaining year on his contract at $5.1 million, a trade to certain teams, such as the Edmonton Oilers, appeared to be a long shot. However, multiple other teams could find a use for the Philadelphia Flyers defenseman.
Sources indicate that the Philadelphia Flyers would be open to listening to offers for Ristolainen if they were comparable to the package the Boston Bruins received for Brandon Carlo last year, which included a first-round pick, a fourth-round pick, and prospect Fraser Minten.
Teams Potentially Seeking a Right-Handed Defenseman with Size and Mobility
Several teams might be in the market for a right-handed defenseman who brings both size and mobility to their blue line. Here’s a look at some potential suitors and their draft capital or prospects:
- Buffalo Sabres: Possess their next three first-round picks. While prospects like Jiri Kulich and Konsta Helenius might be too valuable, a 2023 second-round pick such as Anton Wahlberg could be feasible. If a center isn’t the primary target, goaltender Devon Levi might be an option.
- Boston Bruins: Hold their own first-round pick this year, along with the Maple Leafs’ first-round pick. Their 2022 second-round pick, Matthew Poitras, has seen his prospect stock noted.
- Dallas Stars: Lack their 2026 or 2028 first-round picks and are noted for not having many center prospects.
- San Jose Sharks: Have their own first-round pick and the Oilers’ first-round pick this year. Prospects Filip Bystedt and Zack Ostapchuk are two interesting centers they could potentially offer.
- Ottawa Senators: Do not have a first-round pick this year but possess their next two. Stephen Halliday, who played center in the AHL, has been utilized as a left wing in the NHL.
- Detroit Red Wings: Retain all their first-round picks. While the Wings would likely be unwilling to include top prospects like Nate Danielson or Marco Kasper, 2022 fourth-round pick Amadeus Lombardi is currently performing at a point-per-game pace in the AHL.
