NHL Trade Rumors: Brady Tkachuk, J.T. Miller, and Other Key Players – Buy or Sell?

The NHL’s annual holiday roster freeze will take place from 11:59 PM ET on December 19 to 12:01 AM ET on December 28. If the rumors are to be believed, we may see some trade activity before the freeze begins.

Brady Tkachuk for Alexis Lafrenière?

The Rumor:

The New York Rangers are reportedly targeting Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk. Tkachuk is seen as the perfect addition to revamp the struggling Rangers lineup. Adding the gritty 25-year-old forward could, in Brooks’ view, “instantly change the Rangers’ identity.”

However, acquiring Tkachuk would likely require a substantial trade package, possibly involving winger Alexis Lafrenière. Despite these reports, TSN’s Darren Dreger stated there have been no trade discussions between the two clubs, with the Senators publicly rejecting all offers for their captain.

Verdict: Sell

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun reported that the Senators have no intention of trading Tkachuk. A “reliable source” within the organization affirmed this stance, and Brooks later walked back his initial claims. While Tkachuk fits the profile of what the Rangers are seeking, he isn’t going anywhere.

Could the Toronto Maple Leafs Pursue Nazem Kadri?

The Rumor:

Nazem Kadri, a former Toronto Maple Leafs player and current Calgary Flames centre, has been linked to rumours of a potential return to the Leafs. Analysts Doug MacLean and Jeff Marek recently argued that Toronto needs a strong second-line centre to contend for the Stanley Cup.

While Kadri has been speculated as a trade candidate, he dismissed such talk during training camp, expressing his love for Calgary and its organization.

Verdict: Sell

Even if Kadri were to waive his no-move clause, the Leafs’ tight salary cap makes this move highly unlikely. Kadri’s $7 million annual cap hit runs until 2028-29, and acquiring him would necessitate significant salary cuts, further complicating future signings like Mitch Marner or John Tavares.

Could the Vancouver Canucks Trade JT Miller?

The Rumor:

Vancouver Canucks forward JT Miller has been a central figure in trade rumors, partly fueled by speculation about personal conflicts within the team. Some believe teams like the Boston Bruins or New York Rangers might pursue him, but Canucks president Jim Rutherford has publicly refuted these claims.

Verdict: Sell

Miller’s absence is due to an upper-body injury and personal reasons, not trade-related issues. Rutherford has made it clear the team fully supports him. Furthermore, Miller’s inclusion in Team USA for the upcoming 2025 Four Nations Tournament signals his imminent return to the Canucks lineup.

Evgeni Malkin to the Dallas Stars?

The Rumor:

The Pittsburgh Penguins’ challenging season has led to rumors about potential trades, including star center Evgeni Malkin heading to the Dallas Stars as a replacement for the injured Tyler Seguin. However, Malkin holds a full no-move clause.

Verdict: Sell

Rob Rossi of The Athletic dismissed these rumors, emphasizing that Malkin and Sidney Crosby have both expressed intentions to finish their careers in Pittsburgh. This speculation appears far-fetched at best.

Mikko Rantanen: A $14 Million Man?

The Rumor:

Mikko Rantanen, one of the NHL’s top forwards, could command $14 million annually in free agency if he doesn’t sign an extension with the Colorado Avalanche. Currently in the final year of a $9.3 million annual deal, Rantanen has been a pivotal player for the Avalanche and is among the league’s top scorers.

Verdict: Buy

With the NHL salary cap expected to rise to $92.5 million next season, Rantanen is likely to find teams willing to meet his asking price. While he might take a slight discount to remain in Colorado, the Avalanche will need to dig deep to retain him, possibly exceeding Nathan MacKinnon’s $12.6 million annual cap hit.