With the Olympic roster freeze ongoing, GMs around the league continue to have constant dialogue, as they work on the parameters of deals, and search the market for the most appealing package. Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky is notoriously aggressive on the trade market, and this season's going to be no different, so there's a very good chance the 'Canes and Leafs could be doing business together ahead of the Mar. 6 deadline.
Last week we discussed potentially trading Alexis Lafreniere and Braden Schneider as part of the Rangers' ongoing retool. Much of the recent media focus has centered on who might be leaving New York, but far less attention has been paid to what could come back in return. Today begins a look at potential trade partners, starting with scouting the Detroit Red Wings. The fit in Detroit for Braden Schneider, Vincent Trocheck, and/or Alexis Lafreniere is an interesting one.
Vancouver Canucks GM Patrik Allvin announced on Tuesday that goaltender Thatcher Demko will undergo hip surgery and be out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. Demko last played on January 10 and is expected to be ready for training camp. Demko is done for the season Demko's last action was in a 5-0 loss against the Toronto Maple Leafs on January 10, allowing three goals on six shots.
Post trade, we had a quick conversation. But we were just more focused on how excited we were to add Kiefer to the group, and I think he's going to love it here. He's excited. We're excited to have him, and we think it's a great fit. So hopefully down the road at some point, we'll be able to work something out.
It's unfortunate Scott Laughton has been somewhat ineffective since he joined the Leafs. Brandon Carlo underwent foot surgery on December 3. When he was available, he looked a step slower and less physical than he was playing as a member of the Boston Bruins. In both cases salary retention were involved in the trade. If you're going to overpay for two players, you shouldn't be overpaying for a fourth-line center and bottom-pair defenceman.
