NHL Rumors: Kings, Stars, Hurricanes, and Avalanche

Kings Prospects: Brandt Clarke's Untradeable Status

Speculation suggests that defenseman Brandt Clarke has become a more integral, almost "untradeable," asset for the Los Angeles Kings than forward Quinton Byfield. This shift in perception marks a significant change from just a couple of years ago.

Dallas Stars and Jason Robertson's Contract Situation

Dallas Stars General Manager Jim Nill has engaged in preliminary discussions with pending RFA forward Jason Robertson's new agent. Both parties are focused on Robertson's performance during the current stretch run and playoffs, indicating that there is no immediate pressure to finalize a contract, with ample time available for negotiations.

Carolina Hurricanes: Goaltending Outlook and Alexander Nikishin

Looking ahead, it's anticipated that goaltender Frederik Andersen will likely not return to the Carolina Hurricanes next season, with the team expected to explore the free agent goaltending market during the offseason.

Regarding defenseman Alexander Nikishin, any potential trade by the Hurricanes would require an "elite" return, suggesting a high valuation of the player by the organization.

Colorado Avalanche: Jack Drury's Future with the Team

Following the acquisition of Nic Roy at the trade deadline, Jack Drury might become a trade candidate for the Colorado Avalanche this offseason. The team may be hesitant to meet his asking price and could look to recover assets. It's speculated that the Avalanche might not have pursued Roy if they had known they could also secure Nazem Kadri.

However, if the Avalanche can sign Drury to a multi-year deal at a reasonable figure, he could remain as a fourth-line center, allowing Roy to shift to wing on the third line, with the flexibility to play center when needed. Drury is a Restricted Free Agent (RFA) and was notably the only free agent among several key players who didn't receive an extension recently. This suggests there might have been previous discussions that failed to reach an agreement on a contract number.