Are the Dallas Stars looking to trade Jason Spezza?
Sportsnet: Elliotte Friedman reports hearing Dallas Stars center Jason Spezza’s named being floated recently in the rumor mill. Spezza, 34, has just 7 points in 19 games. Spezza carries a $7.5-million annual cap hit through 2018-19 plus a full no-movement clause. Friedman believes the Stars’ preference is to make things work with Spezza but suggests this situation could bear watching. He notes the Columbus Blue Jackets are looking for a skilled center but adds that’s just guesswork on his part.
Tampa Bay Lightning looking for a top-9 forward
TSN: Pierre LeBrun is reporting the Tampa Bay Lightning need a top-nine forward to skate on their third line with center Tyler Johnson and left wing Alex Killorn. LeBrun said they’ll look to within their system to address this issue but GM Steve Yzerman could also keep eye on the trade market. Some players Yzerman could look at are James Neal and David Perron of the Vegas Golden Knights, Rick Nash of the New York Rangers and Thomas Vanek of the Vancouver Canucks.
Anaheim seeks a top-6 forward, preferably a left winger
TSN: Pierre LeBrun reports the Anaheim Ducks seek a top-six forward, preferably a left winger with a left-handed shot. He added they’ve been in the market since the summer and were monitoring center Matt Duchene’s status prior to the Colorado Avalanche shipping him to the Ottawa Senators.
Montreal Canadiens forward Alex Galchenyuk could be a trade target for the Ducks. Another option could be Buffalo Sabres left winger Evander Kane. Trade rumors stretching back to June 2016 link Kane to the Ducks. Considering the Sabres’ blueline woes, they could certainly use someone such as Sami Vatanen, Brandon Montour or Josh Manson.