It’s another round of NHL rumours this All-Star Break. Trade talks are starting to heat up with the March 3 trade deadline coming. However, there are some intriguing tales coming with that time crunch. Even the injured are getting looks at the upcoming deadline. The Columbus Blue Jackets have such a player that’s getting interest despite an injury. Columbus could still make a Gustav Nyquist trade even though he’s hurt. Today’s NHL rumours takes a look at that possibility.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Gustav Nyquist Trade Can Still Happen
Rumour: TSN’s Chris Johnston said that Nyquist could still be dealt during the latest edition of Insider Trading. Johnston said the injured forward could get even more interest because of his situation. Teams could still deal for the veteran winger and use the long-term injured reserve space to stash him on the roster.
INSIDER TRADING: #TSNHockey Insiders discuss…
– NHLPA leadership search
– Anderson not in play unless Habs forced to reconsider
– Larkin, agent meeting this weekend
– VGK reassessing with Mar. 3 looming
– Why Nyquist is unique deadline pieceICYMI 🌍: https://t.co/MKwAxvvU7A pic.twitter.com/tXmgqfoIde
— TSN Hockey (@TSNHockey) February 3, 2023
Nyquist carries a $5.5 million cap hit and contenders like the Toronto Maple Leafs could add him if they make some moves. Johnston alluded to the Leafs putting Auston Matthews on LTIR and then acquiring Nyquist. The Leafs could activate him for one day and they add a player without going over the cap.
Could a Gustav Nyquist Trade Happen?
The main thing is will the 33-year-old be ready to go by the start of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. It may be pointless to get him if he cannot return at some point during the post-season. However, he could be a decent pickup if he’s set to return.
The situation could remind people of what the Tampa Bay Lightning did with Nikita Kucherov a couple of seasons ago. However, it is perfectly legal under the league’s collective bargaining agreement to do this. Let’s keep in mind that it was Tampa Bay that wanted to close this loophole but was outvoted.
Nyquist could prove to be a solid depth forward for a team needing extra forwards. It might draw the ire of some fans, but general managers will win at all costs. The Jackets will be sellers and could get something for the Swedish forward.
