Brandt Clarke Now Deemed Less Tradable Than Quinton Byfield for Kings?
Eric Stephens suggests an unexpected shift in perception within the Los Angeles Kings organization: Brandt Clarke is now considered less tradable than Quinton Byfield. This sentiment marks a notable change from just a couple of years ago, when such a notion would have been highly unlikely.
Dallas Stars and Jason Robertson Delay Contract Talks for Playoff Focus
Bruce LeVine reports that Dallas Stars General Manager Jim Nill has engaged in initial discussions with the new agent for pending Restricted Free Agent (RFA) forward Jason Robertson. Both parties are reportedly keen on Robertson prioritizing the team’s crucial stretch run and upcoming playoffs, indicating that there is no immediate deadline or urgency to finalize a new contract.
Carolina Hurricanes’ Goaltending Search and High Price for Alexander Nikishin
David Pagnotta, while on the DFO Rundown, projected that goaltender Freddy Andersen is unlikely to return to the Carolina Hurricanes. He anticipates the team will actively explore the goaltending market during the offseason. Concurrently, Elliotte Friedman commented on Sportsnet regarding trade rumors surrounding Alexander Nikishin, stating that the Hurricanes would only consider moving him if they received an “elite” return.
Jack Drury’s Uncertain Future with the Colorado Avalanche
Aarif Deen of Colorado Hockey Now, in a mailbag segment, speculates that Jack Drury could emerge as a trade candidate for the Colorado Avalanche this offseason, particularly following the acquisition of Nic Roy. Deen suggests the Avalanche might be unwilling to meet Drury’s desired contract terms and could instead aim to recoup assets, even musing that the Roy trade might not have occurred if the team had foreseen the possibility of acquiring Nazem Kadri. Conversely, Deen also notes that if Drury could be secured on a reasonable multi-year deal, he might remain with the team as a fourth-line center, allowing Roy to transition to wing on the third line or serve as a center option when needed. As an RFA, Drury notably did not receive an extension like several other players, including Parker Kelly, Josh Manson, Sam Malinski, Scott Wedgewood, Martin Necas, and Gavin Brindley. Deen speculates that the Avs likely held discussions with Drury but were unable to reach an agreement on financial terms.
