5 Right-Handed Defencemen Being Discussed in Trade Offers
The NHL returns this week and we've already seen two trades go down on Tuesday, with several others expected this week. There's been no shortage of trade conversations taking place, and specifically looking at the blueline, there's several right-handed defencemen being discussed on ongoing discussions.
Bruce Garrioch: A league executive told the Citizen that Brandon Carlo; Dougie Hamilton; Connor Murphy...and both Justin Faulk and Colton Parayko...are likely available - Ottawa Citizen
As Garrioch reports, the New Jersey Devils continue to look for a new home for Dougie Hamilton, as their relationship is broken, and the team and player don't see a long-term fit anymore. Hamilton was scratched earlier this season and is a tough trade chip due to the $9 million AAV for two more seasons, and some declining numbers. Hamilton submitted a list of 10 teams he'll approve a trade to, however, the Devils aren't giving in to retaining 50% of Hamilton's remaining salary, which is certainly complicating trade offers. The Hurricanes and Maple Leafs appear to be leading the charge.
Speaking of the Maple Leafs, Brandon Carlo is someone who could very well be moved in the Hamilton deal to New Jersey, or potentially elsewhere. Carlo hasn't worked out as hoped in Toronto, and with the Boston Bruins reeking the benefits of Fraser Minten arriving on the scene, and a first-round pick, the Carlo acquisition could go down as one of Brad Treliving's worst moves. Carlo is owed $3.4 million this season and next, and owns a eight-team no-trade clause.
The Blues are open for business and have been listening to offers on both Justin Faulk and Colton Parayko. It feels like the Hamilton market could be slowing down the process here, but don't be surprised to see the Blues cash in on one of their blueliners, if not both. St. Louis is desperate for a roster reset and could get some fine pieces back in return for Faulk or Parayko. At the Olympics, Parayko did not have a good showing, so it's more likely the market heats up on Faulk instead.
Lastly, Chicago Blackhawks d-man Connor Murphy is a prime trade candidate, and is very likely being moved by the team. He's owed $4.4 million this season, is a pending unrestricted free agent, and is one of the best defensive defenceman available on the rental market. Murphy holds a 10-team no-trade list and can have some say in the matter.
Trade talks are heating up in a major way, expect a flurry of deals this week.
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
