NHL trade deadline rankings tiers: Which players could move?

"The NHL needs two things for an entertaining trade deadline: demanding contenders who have delusions of Stanley Cup grandeur, and enough teams willing to part with their current players to provide supply. There are roughly eight teams that are probably out of the playoff hunt as the March 6 trade deadline approaches."

"A change in recent fortunes for some teams might change their thinking. Take the Columbus Blue Jackets, who have surged up the standings under new head coach Rick Bowness. A month ago, players like Boone Jenner and Charlie Coyle would have been found in the trade tiers below. Now, it sounds like there's a better chance they could be extended than moved."

The NHL trade deadline on March 6 depends on having both contenders pursuing Stanley Cup ambitions and teams willing to trade their players. Approximately eight teams are expected to be out of playoff contention. The New York Rangers initiated a retool, trading Artemi Panarin to Los Angeles. Calgary, St. Louis, and Vancouver are evaluating their disappointing seasons. However, recent improvements for some teams like Columbus under new coach Rick Bowness may change their approach, with players like Boone Jenner and Charlie Coyle now more likely to be extended than traded. The trade market includes pending free agents, players with remaining contract term, and role players, with several high-profile names already traded.

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