The NHL's 2024-25 season has kicked off with trade rumors heating up, especially following a recent deal between the Colorado Avalanche and Vancouver Canucks. Key players like Igor Shesterkin of the New York Rangers are in the spotlight as they approach free agency, with discussions about a potential lucrative contract extension ongoing.

Other notable trade candidates include Timothy Liljegren from the Toronto Maple Leafs and Cam Fowler from the Anaheim Ducks. The Buffalo Sabres are also considering significant trades to improve their chances of breaking a long playoff drought.

As for Kirill Kaprizov of the Minnesota Wild, speculation surrounds his future, particularly regarding interest from the Chicago Blackhawks. The Wild are determined to keep their star player, ensuring he remains a vital part of their roster.

Erik Brannstrom's stint with the Colorado Avalanche was brief, as he was traded to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Tucker Poolman and a 2025 fourth-round pick.

Poolman, a seasoned defenseman, has a history with the Canucks and Winnipeg Jets, while Brannstrom struggled to secure a roster spot after signing as a free agent.

Additionally, the Avalanche have signed young forward Nikita Prishchepov to an entry-level contract, boosting their roster with promising talent.

Erik Brannstrom, once a valuable asset for the Ottawa Senators, has seen his stock plummet since being traded to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2019. After a lackluster performance at Colorado Avalanche camp, he was traded to the Vancouver Canucks for a fourth-round pick and injured defenseman Tucker Poolman.

Brannstrom's $900,000 salary makes him an affordable option, but the Senators are unlikely to reclaim him due to their shift towards a 'bigger is better' strategy on defense.