NHL Insider says that a major deadline seller is now open for business
Per Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman had something very interesting to report on Tuesday which could have some major trade deadline implications.
Friedman reported that Anaheim Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek has reached out to other league GM's that he is essentially open for business on all of his pending UFA's, which would include the likes of Rickard Rakell, Josh Manson and Hampus Lindholm.
Now, as Friedge had pointed out after making the announcement on Twitter, Verbeek inviting trade negotiations, it does not necessarily mean that any of these players will be dealt. The Ducks GM will likely still continue to negotiate contract extensions with each of these players and others, but if the sides remain too far apart, they could certainly be moved.
Verbeek had commented last week that it was his primary focus to retain Rakell, Manson and Lindholm, but also noted that he does not intend to late any of these players walk to free agency for nothing. Essentially, what that means is that if there's no extensions in place for these 3 players (and others) by the time March 21st rolls around, Anaheim could turn into major sellers.
Rakell has been linked to several teams, including the Leafs, Bruins and recently the New York Rangers. As far as Lindholm and Manson go, they have not been linked to a lot of teams by anyone reputable. Obviously, the Maple Leafs are looking to add a defenseman, so they're one team to watch.
