The National Hockey League (NHL) is currently experiencing a significant crisis in its trade market, specifically concerning players in the centre position. This shortage of available talent has put the spotlight squarely on experienced names like Phillip Danault of the Los Angeles Kings, Ryan Strome of the Anaheim Ducks, and Mason Marchment of the Seattle Kraken, making them the subjects of intense trade speculation.
Why Centres Are in High Demand
Depth at the centre position is a critical component for any team aiming for success in the NHL. With a limited pool of quality centres available for trade, franchises are now closely monitoring veteran players whose on-ice production has dipped or whose roles within their current teams have changed. This scarcity has turned the trade rumour mill into overdrive as the league approaches its next roster freeze period.
The Phillip Danault Situation in Los Angeles
The situation surrounding Phillip Danault and the Los Angeles Kings has become a major talking point across the league. Danault has seen a reduction in his ice time recently, primarily due to the team's struggles on offence. This development has prompted several other clubs to inquire about his availability.
Insiders suggest that calls for a potential trade could be made well before the official trade freeze. Notably, NHL analyst Frank Seravalli has linked Danault to a potential return to the Montreal Canadiens, where he played for six years and helped lead the team to the 2021 Stanley Cup Final. Reports from Jonathan Bernier of TVA Sports indicate the Kings have quietly made Danault available, and the player himself is open to a move back to Montreal.
However, analyst Elliotte Friedman provides a counterpoint, stating that Los Angeles is not in a rush to deal Danault unless an exceptional offer comes their way. This caution is especially relevant with the impending retirement of veteran star Anze Kopitar looming on the horizon.
Ryan Strome and Mason Marchment Also in the Mix
Ryan Strome of the Anaheim Ducks is another name being watched closely. Despite being signed through 2027, Strome has faced challenges this season, including injury spells, being a healthy scratch, and playing in a diminished role. His situation makes him a potential candidate for a change of scenery.
On a different note, Mason Marchment of the Seattle Kraken, primarily a winger, is seen as a player who could become available via a mid-season trade. Friedman speculates that any deal involving Marchment might only materialise after Seattle's full team picture becomes clearer. His contract status and past interest from other clubs add further layers to the speculation.
What Happens Next?
With the market for quality centres being exceptionally thin, experienced players like Danault, Strome, and Marchment are under a microscope. As the deadline for the roster freeze draws nearer, trade rumours surrounding these key figures are expected to intensify, not subside. Teams desperate to bolster their middle-line depth are likely to become more aggressive in their pursuit, setting the stage for potential major moves in the coming weeks.
