NHL Trade Deadline Approaches: Defensemen in Demand
As the NHL trade deadline looms on the horizon, the market for experienced defensemen is heating up. Teams are scrambling to bolster their blue line, and several veteran blueliners are poised to be key targets. Whether they are shutdown players, puck-movers, or offensive threats, these defenders offer a mix of skills that can significantly impact a team’s performance. Here are 10 defensemen who could be on the move, each with their unique value propositions.
David Savard: A Reliable Depth Option
David Savard of the Montreal Canadiens is a right-shot defenseman who is set to become an unrestricted free agent (UFA) at the end of the season. His $3.5 million salary is relatively affordable, and his average ice time of 17:43 minutes makes him a solid choice for a second or third-pair defenseman. While Savard isn’t a high-octane offensive player—having just 12 points this season—he brings a strong, dependable presence to the back end. For teams looking to shore up their defensive depth without breaking the bank, Savard is a valuable addition.
Luke Schenn: The Journeyman Defenceman
Luke Schenn, a 35-year-old veteran of the Nashville Predators, is a physical D-man who has seen action with numerous teams over his career. With another season remaining on his $2.75 million contract, Schenn isn’t a pure rental, which adds to his appeal. Averaging 15:32 minutes of ice time, Schenn can provide solid third-pair depth and physicality. His relatively low trade cost and experience make him an attractive option for contending teams looking to fortify their defensive core. Interestingly, there’s even speculation about reuniting Schenn with his brother Brayden, a scenario that could add a personal touch to the trade.
Rasmus Ristolainen: The Big-Body Blueliner
Rasmus Ristolainen of the Philadelphia Flyers is a standout option for teams seeking a big, physical defenseman. With two more years on his contract at $5.1 million per season, Ristolainen is a long-term investment. At 30 years old, he’s in his prime and has been healthy this season, despite a history of injury concerns. A right-shot D-man, Ristolainen’s size and physicality make him a valuable asset for any team looking to add a robust presence on the blue line. His potential to contribute both offensively and defensively should make him a highly sought-after player.
Brian Dumoulin: The Steady Veteran
Brian Dumoulin of the Anaheim Ducks is a less glamorous choice among available defensemen, but his qualities shouldn’t be overlooked. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches, Dumoulin is a no-nonsense D-man who averages 19:49 minutes of ice time. He’s a pure rental for this season, but his $3.15 million salary makes him a cost-effective solution for teams in need of defensive help. As a left-shot blueliner, Dumoulin can fill a gap in the second or third pairing, and his reliability and experience will likely draw interest from multiple teams.
Connor Murphy: The Pricy Prospect
Connor Murphy of the Chicago Blackhawks is one of the pricier options on this list, with a $4.4 million cap hit extending through the 2025-26 season. However, his 6-foot-4 frame and average ice time of 20:47 minutes on a rebuilding Blackhawks team make him an attractive prospect. Murphy, 31, is in his prime and could benefit from a change of scenery. His right-shot versatility and imposing presence make him a valuable addition for teams looking to strengthen their top-four defense. The Blackhawks, having recently traded Seth Jones, might be open to moving Murphy to focus on their rebuild.
Erik Karlsson: The Offensive Powerhouse
Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins is a unique case. His $10 million cap hit is a significant obstacle for cap-strapped teams, but his offensive prowess and veteran experience make him an enticing trade target. Karlsson has a full no-movement clause, giving him the power to choose his next destination. Despite the financial hurdle, his performance at the 4 Nations Face-Off and his track record as a top defenseman could persuade a team to make a move, possibly with the help of a third team to facilitate the cap logistics. For teams willing to take the financial risk, Karlsson could provide a significant offensive boost.
Final Thoughts
The NHL trade deadline is a time of intense activity, and the market for defensemen is particularly robust this year. Whether teams are looking to shore up their defensive depth, add a physical presence, or boost their offensive output, there are several veteran blueliners available who could make a significant impact. As the deadline approaches, the flurry of trade talks will only intensify, and the moves made could shape the playoff landscape for the coming months.
