During a recent segment on the Sirius XM NHL Network Radio Power Play, Dave Pagnotta from the Fourth Period joined Steve Kouleas and Carter Hutton to discuss the current trade landscape in the NHL. Notably, both Vladimir Tarasenko and Dominik Kubalik are reportedly available for trade, but they are not the only players being considered. The dynamics of the trade market are shifting, and teams are weighing their options carefully as the deadline approaches.

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NHL Rumors: Ottawa Senators May Act as Both Buyers and Sellers Before the Trade Deadline

Carter Hutton commented on the situation, expressing that given the Ottawa Senators‘ tumultuous season and their frustrations, the Tarasenko contract could be a pivotal factor in their decision-making. Specifically, he questioned whether there has been any substantial discussion regarding Tarasenko’s potential destinations. Hutton emphasized that teams like Ottawa are at a crucial juncture, needing to dump assets except for their most promising young players.

In response, Dave Pagnotta confirmed that Tarasenko is indeed on the market, though his options have been somewhat limited in the past. He noted Tarasenko’s previous trade to the New York Rangers and mentioned the competitive landscape of New York’s three teams—the Islanders, the Rangers, and the Devils. He highlighted that Tarasenko is now more open to exploring various opportunities compared to his past dealing.

NHL Rumors: Ottawa Senators, Edmonton Oilers, and Calgary Flames in the Trade Mix

Pagnotta elaborated that Tarasenko is considering several teams, including Florida and Carolina, the latter being a team he almost signed with during the summer. This potential shift indicates that he is eager to find a suitable environment that aligns with his goals. The key factor here is his $5 million cap hit, which Ottawa is reportedly willing to retain up to half of, thus making a trade more feasible for interested teams.

In addition to Tarasenko, Dominik Kubalik is also a name circulating in trade discussions. The Senators have been actively looking to move him, as he is another pending unrestricted free agent. The organization is assessing their options, including other significant players that could be pivotal for their future strategies.

NHL Rumors: Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo Sabres, and Potential 2024 First-Round Trades

Among those mentioned is Jakob Chychrun, alongside Josh Norris, both of whom could be part of larger trades. Pagnotta indicated that these moves could reshape the roster significantly. The Senators are not just looking to offload players but are also keen on generating assets and possibly making impactful trades to strengthen their lineup. He projected that Tarasenko might fetch a second-round pick, while Kubalik could result in a late-round choice.

Furthermore, the Senators are contemplating trades that would exchange talent for talent, which could involve Chychrun or even Norris, enhancing other areas of their roster. Steve Staois and his team have been notably proactive, exploring avenues to improve the team’s competitive edge as the trade deadline looms.