Hockey Trade Rumors

Newsday.com suggests that the Islanders are only a few players away from being a legitimate cup contender. Although players such as Tkackuk, Guerin and others would be a big help to the team newsday feels that they would be better off waiting until the summer to pick up players rather than selling off the farm for today.

The Chicago-Sun Times speculates that the Black Hawks may be looking to deal some of their veteran players prior to the deadline. Some of the names mentioned include Bryan Smolinski, Martin Lapointe, Adrian Aucoin and Jassen Cullimore.

With the amount of trades happening in the last 48 hours it appears as though the flood gates have opened, here are some rumors:

STLtoday.com reports that the Blues are looking to trade many of their players who are set to become unrestricted free agents come years end. To note is that it is reported that Keith Tkachuk is reported to be willing to waive his no-trade clause in order to be shipped off to a playoff bound team.

The Detroit News reports that many players may become available at the looming trade deadline. Florida has Gary Roberts, Martin Gelinas and Jozef Stumpel to offer while if Edmonton falls out of contention they could look to trade Ryan Smyth.

The Edmonton Sun reports:

Suddenly, the Sabres are listening to offers for G Martin Biron. It’s believed the asking price is high: a player, prospect and first-round pick. Sources say the Bolts have made a pitch because they haven’t had strong goaltending since Nikolai Khabibulin left. The Sabres may also be ready to move RW Ales Kotalik

Part two of three in taking a look at some of the trade buzz, which players are available, and what you should do in your hockey pool to prepare for these moves that may or may not happen.

Jason Blake has been one of the best Islanders over the past 6 years and will be an unrestricted free agent at years end, instead of worrying about making the playoffs this guy is worrying about a long term deal.

According to the Detroit Free Press, Peter Forsberg is said to be down to 3 teams that would make him renounce his no-trade clause…

According to TSN.ca Denis Hamel has been put on waivers. This guy should be snatched up pretty fast.

The Edmonton Journal suggest that if the Edmonton Oilers were to fall out of playoff contention that star winger Ryan Smyth could be traded. Ryan Smyth who is turning 31 becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer and contract talks are still far apart for both the sides. Ryan Smyth is looking for a long term contract about 5 years and around 5 million a year.

A collection of Peter Forsberg stories that may be of some interest