The Colorado Avalanche find themselves in a precarious situation heading into the season, particularly in their bottom six. With Logan O'Connor sidelined due to injury, the team faces a pressing need for depth on their third line. Potential trade targets include J.T. Compher, currently with the Red Wings, and Lawson Crouse from the Mammoth. Furthermore, if the New York Islanders struggle, Jean-Gabriel Pageau could become a viable option later in the season.

While keeping Charlie Coyle would have been ideal for center depth, the need for salary cap flexibility led to his departure along with Miles Wood. Meanwhile, as the Calgary Flames navigate their own challenges, their leading scorer Nazem Kadri's name has surfaced in trade discussions, which may not align with the team's goals.

The Minnesota Wild are reportedly considering a move for New York Islanders center Jean-Gabriel Pageau, who is in the final year of his contract with a $5 million cap hit. Pageau's ability to play as a third-line center makes him an attractive option for several teams, including the Wild, as they seek to bolster their roster. However, his no-trade protection complicates any potential deal, as he has a list of 16 teams he can decline.

As discussions heat up around Pageau, the Wild’s front office is weighing their options, assessing how they can incorporate him into their lineup without compromising their long-term flexibility. Meanwhile, the Islanders may look to maximize their return on Pageau while he's still a valuable asset.

The Minnesota Wild are actively seeking trades, particularly involving Marco Rossi, who has become a focal point of trade discussions. After failing to acquire J.J. Peterka from the Buffalo Sabres, the Wild's management is focused on maximizing Rossi's value. General Manager Bill Guerin is looking for NHL-ready talent rather than draft picks. Following the trade of Frederick Gaudreau to Seattle, the Wild may consider reacquiring Charlie Coyle or Jean-Gabriel Pageau, but a solution for Rossi's situation remains elusive.

Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins are positioned to capitalize on the upcoming NHL draft, with rumors suggesting they may move into the Top 10 to select high-potential players. With two top picks at 11th and 12th, the organization is focused on improving their prospect pool while navigating trade options to enhance their roster. However, time is of the essence, and the Penguins need to act swiftly as the draft approaches.

Rumors are swirling around potential trades involving the Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, and New York Islanders as the draft approaches. The Flyers and Bruins are reportedly interested in Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov, who is seeking a contract in the $5-6 million range. Additionally, the Bruins have expressed interest in Jean-Gabriel Pageau as they consider moving their seventh overall pick. The Flyers are looking to upgrade their defense with Romanov, viewing him as a better fit than current players Egor Zamula and Nick Seeler.

Romanov's potential availability is particularly intriguing given the Islanders' recent contract talks with his camp. If he were traded, the Islanders would likely seek a late first or early second-round pick in return. Boston's GM Don Sweeney has also indicated a willingness to leverage their draft capital to bolster their roster, heightening the stakes for these negotiating teams as they look to make impactful moves this offseason.

The Colorado Avalanche's Ryan Lindgren, recently acquired from the New York Rangers, is focused solely on his performance on the ice, deflecting contract discussions until the offseason. Having previously signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract, Lindgren anticipates a long-term deal but prioritizes team success and personal improvement as the Avalanche aim for the playoffs.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers attempted to secure forward Jean-Gabriel Pageau from the New York Islanders at the trade deadline, but negotiations failed. The Islanders' management indicated a preference for younger players over draft picks, emphasizing their current roster's potential for improvement.