The Washington Capitals are actively exploring trade options for defenseman Ethan Bear, who has spent the entire season in the AHL. With a desire to return to the NHL, Bear is a pending unrestricted free agent, making him an attractive option for teams seeking defensive depth. Meanwhile, the Capitals may also be looking to bolster their roster with a versatile third-line forward, especially with Sonny Milano's impending return and potential NCAA signee Ryan Leonard on the horizon.

In the realm of trade speculation, Dylan Cozens and Alex Tuch of the Buffalo Sabres are drawing interest, but the Sabres have not received satisfactory offers for these vital players. Additionally, defenseman Bowen Byram is also in the conversation for a potential trade, increasing the urgency for teams to improve their offers. The Los Angeles Kings, on the other hand, are searching for a strong top-nine forward to complement their scoring ability, putting them in a competitive position as they eye potential acquisitions.