SportsNet’s HockeyCentral Trade Tracker panel recently analyzed the situation of three Canadian teams in the Western Conference heading into the February 27 trade deadline.
Here is a quick look at what they discussed (see video for more details):
In Edmonton, Ales Hemsky and Sam Gagner appear to be on the block. Hemsky is no longer a fit on the club’s top-two lines, may be dumped for picks. Gagner, on the other hand, could be used as part of a package to land a Rick Nash type of player.
Columbus Blue Jackets forward Rick Nash. Photo courtesy Flickr user bridgetds.
The ownership in Calgary feels they are a playoff team, don’t want to rebuild — so they will be buyers. The trade with the Montreal Canadiens for Mike Cammalleri was just the start. Look for them to try and improve at center.
The Vancouver Canucks need some grit and toughness up front, and depth on the blueline. They have Cody Hodgson to move. A rumor circulating during the All Star game had the Canucks dealing Cory Schneider, Mason Raymond, and Keith Ballard to the Anaheim Ducks for Corey Perry. It originated on an Internet message board — enough said.
