Few things in the NHL drive news and speculation like trade rumours. There’s just something satisfying about debating for hours the possible trade routes and pieces involved in a potential deal. Recently in the National Hockey League there have been some very compelling rumours involving some high profile players who could be on the move.
Ryan Johansen and Travis Hamonic are the two biggest players on the block today, which is why we will take a more detailed look at why they want to be moved and where they could wind up.
Ryan Johansen, Columbus Blue Jackets
It may sound crazy that the incredibly talented young forward is on the trade market, but that is indeed the case. It was recently reported by TSN’s Darren Dreger that Johansen is “softly in play.” That means it’s not an active shop, rather, general manager Jarmo Kekalainen is fielding offers and seeing what other teams are willing to part ways with.
The former fourth overall pick currently has 16 points in 20 games this season. He’s already encountered some problems with new head coach Jon Tortorella and has seen his minutes take a hit as a result. Columbus will almost certainly want a huge package back for the talented centre, who is only a mere 23-years-old.
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The team is struggling and currently sits with a very underwhelming record of 8-14-0. They will do just about anything to get back to prominence, which is why Johansen’s name keeps popping up in the rumour mill. If you’re Columbus, you must consider all options to make your team better. Plain and simple, it’s the business of hockey.
Travis Hamonic, New York Islanders
Confirming report from @FriedgeHNIC, Travis Hamonic requested a trade prior to the start of the season. #Isles trying to accommodate.
— Arthur Staple (@StapeAthletic) November 18, 2015
One of the more interesting trade candidates, the solid defenseman has reportedly requested a trade to a club situated in western Canada. There is a family matter that has facilitated his sudden and unusual request. Garth Snow, the general manager of the Islanders, isn’t willing to let Hamonic go for nothing however.
The Edmonton Oilers are believed to be a good fit, but are unwilling to part with Darnell Nurse. Justin Schultz has come up in discussions but it would take more than just him in order to make this trade work. The Calgary Flames are a potential destination however, parting with T.J. Brodie or Dougie Hamilton is more likely than not out of the question.
The Winnipeg Jets could have a stake in where Hamonic lands, but it would probably be costly and involve a solid roster player and prospect going the other way. There are also two interesting teams who appear to be to have considered a deal. I’m talking about the Anaheim Ducks and Arizona Coyotes.
The Ducks have the youth and are willing to move pieces, the only problem is the destination doesn’t make sense from Hamonic’s perspective. It’s still an intriguing option that is worth keeping a close eye on.
The same problem goes for the Coyotes. They have a young, developing team with many moveable pieces. The only downside is the destination doesn’t mesh at all with Hamonic’s views. The Isles will continue to kick tires on this matter and will only make the move when they think they can maximize the assets they get in return.