Calgary Flames show progress as Mikael Backlund remains open to staying in Calgary with one year left, while Connor Zary edges toward a three-year deal around 3.5 million cap hit. Toronto's goaltending depth is being reworked with Anthony Stolarz in play, and David Kampf and Calle Jarnkrok could be moved to adjust the lineup. Carter Hart draws Flyers interest from buyers, Mario Ferraro remains a rumor mill staple for Sharks, and Quinn Hughes faces noise without a firm long-term decision in Vancouver. Carey Price’s contract remains a sticking point for the Canadiens. Fantasy implications center on Calgary’s balance of veteran presence with youth, Toronto’s depth shifts, and goaltending volatility across the league.

Expect Zary to push for increased ice time behind Backlund, with Calgary leveraging leadership and a competitive middle six. Hart’s market could reshape Philadelphia’s goaltending picture, while the chatter around Ferraro and Hughes hints at defensive depth and opportunity for breakout seasons regardless of movement. Price’s cap situation in Montreal keeps fantasy rosters cautious, while Leafs’ and Sharks’ rumblings underscore how roster maintenance can swing short- and mid-term value across fantasy lineups.

The San Jose Sharks are actively seeking to bolster their scoring capabilities while managing their defensive roster. Recently, they signed John Klingberg and Dmitry Orlov, and claimed Nick Leddy off waivers to strengthen their backline. However, reports indicate that they are still on the hunt for a top-six forward. The team had shown interest in Nic Hague before his trade to the Nashville Predators and is now eyeing Bowen Byram as a potential target.

Looking to make strategic trades, the Sharks are considering moving defensemen Timothy Liljegren, Henry Thrun, or Mario Ferraro, with the latter possessing increased trade value closer to the deadline. Ferraro's name has been circulating in trade rumors for the past couple of seasons, and it seems the Sharks may wait for the right opportunity to leverage his value for offensive reinforcements. Meanwhile, other teams, including the Buffalo Sabres, are also in need of skilled forwards as the market for available players tightens.

Brad Marchand's name has been swirling in trade discussions between the Boston Bruins and Colorado Avalanche, particularly after the Avalanche acquired Brock Nelson. While Marchand's potential move appeared unlikely post-trade, the buzz continues. In Philadelphia, the Flyers' contract talks with defenseman Cam York have cooled, likely pushing any agreement until the offseason.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Pittsburgh Penguins seem focused on making strategic moves, while over in San Jose, the Sharks are evaluating the market for defenseman Mario Ferraro. Initially seeking a first-round pick, they settled on a fourth-round pick for Luke Kunin, indicating their readiness to negotiate. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes’ notable interest in Matthew Knies from the Toronto Maple Leafs adds another layer to the trade conversations, especially amid shifting team strategies.