The Blue Jackets seek a top-6 forward
The Athletic: The Columbus Blue Jackets hope to land a top-six center before the Feb. 26 trade deadline. Alex Galcheyuk of the Montreal Canadiens and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins of the Edmonton Oilers as two potential options. Galchenyuk’s slow start this season sparked suggestions he could be available. So far, however, the Habs are resisting the temptation to move him. Were he to be shipped to the Jackets, his struggles at center could test the patience of coach John Tortorella.
Nugent-Hopkins is a better option but he carries a $6-million annual salary through 2020-21. With over $5 million in cap space, the Jackets would have to make room to absorb his contract or convince the Oilers to pick up a portion of his cap hit. The Oilers lack of offense at right wing suggests the asking price could Cam Atkinson or Josh Anderson.
Ducks, Habs, Rangers seeking scoring help
TSN: In the latest edition of “Insider Trading,” Bob McKenzie reports trade talk has increased since the Matt Duchene trade earlier this month. He said the Anaheim Ducks, Montreal Canadiens and New York Rangers are in the market for a center and the Florida Panthers have stepped up their search for a scoring winger of late.
The Pittsburgh Penguins seek a backup goalie
TSN: Darren Dreger reports, the Pittsburgh Penguins have a bit of a situation developing in goal. They’re very confident in Matt Murray and they’ve got Tristan Jarry who they have high hopes for and they know that he is a competent backup. But maybe they need a bit more insurance, so I wouldn’t be surprised if the Penguins add a veteran goalie who can slide into the American Hockey League.”
