NHL Off-Season Trading and Buyout Candidates
As the off-season approaches, NHL teams are increasingly looking to revamp their rosters, often by shedding contracts that no longer make sense for them. With a significant rise in the salary cap, trading undesirable contracts has become a more practical endeavor compared to previous years. Recent trades involving players like Chris Kreider and Erik Haula prove that it’s possible to receive beneficial returns even for contracts seen as burdensome.
Potential Buyout Candidates
A list of potential buyout candidates includes notable names such as Matt Dumba, Pierre Engvall, Justin Holl, and Mattias Samuelsson, among others. These players, while currently underperforming or limited, are being closely monitored as teams explore the trade route before opting for buyouts.
Players Targeted for Trade Discussions
As teams comb through the market for viable trades, some contracts are being discussed more frequently than others. Players believed to be slightly overpaid, rather than outright burdens, could also be moved this off-season. Here are nine players whose contracts have raised eyebrows and could be targeted for trade discussions.
- Matias Maccelli – The promising young forward began his 2022-23 season strong but fell out of favor last season with a drastic drop in points, finishing with only 18 points in 55 games. While his $3.425 million cap hit initially seemed like a bargain, his struggles and size may lead to a fresh start elsewhere, appealing to teams in need of a skilled middle-six winger.
- Ondrej Palat – At 34 years old, Palat’s contract is viewed as inefficient. Despite his linemate status with rising star Jack Hughes, he managed only 28 points last season. With two years remaining on his $6 million cap hit, relocating Palat could help the Devils budget for a roster upgrade, especially if they retain part of his salary.
- Evander Kane – With one year left on a $5.125 million deal, Kane’s productivity during the playoffs raises questions about his sustainability next season, especially after serious injuries sidelined him for the regular season. Addressing his contract could alleviate the Oilers’ cap struggles, as Kane’s limited trade protection might make him easier to move.
- Ilya Lyubushkin – As a sound defensive option with a cap hit of $3.25 million, Lyubushkin retains value as a bottom-pairing defenseman. Given the Stars’ salary cap concerns, his contract could be shopped despite his reliable performance last season.
- Miles Wood – While Wood possesses game-changing speed and physicality, his inconsistent play and injuries have often hindered his contributions. His $2.5 million cap hit, still reasonable in the context of today’s market, could see him moved as the Avalanche seek roster flexibility.
- Vladimir Tarasenko – This former star has seen his production plummet in Detroit. With only one year and a $4.75 million cap hit left, the Red Wings might need to retain part of that salary to make him more attractive to potential buyers.
- Carson Soucy – Acquired mid-season, Soucy struggled to meet expectations despite his top four experience with the Canucks. With a $3.25 million cap hit and little left to show, the Rangers could seek to trade him if they aim for high-impact roster changes.
- Nick Leddy – After the Blues secured key players on defense, Leddy’s role is now seen as redundant. With just one more year on his $4 million contract, he remains a player of interest who could still help a team needing a veteran defenseman.
- Andre Burakovsky – Expected to shine after joining the Kraken, Burakovsky’s results have been lackluster. A high cap hit of $5.5 million for the next two years may necessitate retention by Seattle for a potential trade.
These nine players, while varying in their potential value and risk, stand as candidates for movement in the upcoming off-season. Teams across the league will be looking to adjust their finances while seeking to enhance their competitiveness, making for an intriguing trading period imminent in the NHL.
