NHL Rumors: Ducks Willing To Trade 3 Players

Anaheim Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek openly stated that he will trade Hampus Lindholm, Josh Manson, and Rickard Rakell if they are unable to come to terms with an extension. He also noted that he's not willing to lose any of them through free agency for nothing.

These three have been in the rumor mill for quite some time, but due to the Ducks' surprisingly competitive season, there has been debate about their potential availabilities. However, even if the Ducks remain in the Wild Card race, we now have confirmation from Verbeek himself that he will move them if they do not sign extensions.

Out of the trio, Lindholm is the biggest name and will carry the most trade value. In 54 games this season, he has five goals, 15 assists, and a plus-5 rating. He can play top-pairing minutes, so teams in need of a left-handed defenseman will be lining up for his services - if he doesn't sign an extension before deadline day, of course.

Manson carries a 12-team no-trade list, so he will have to accept a move. There have been rumblings that the veteran defenseman would prefer to stay in Anaheim, so an extension isn't out of the question. Yet, if his asking price is too high, the Ducks will be forced to move him.

Rakell's name has come up in the rumor mill for years. It seems likely that a change of scenery will occur with him, and this is especially true when looking at Anaheim's strong cast of forward prospects. If the Ducks officially decide to not bring him back, plenty of teams will be on the hunt for the top-six forward.