Calgary Flames goaltender Jacob Markstrom has surfaced more in trade speculation and rumors. What are the sticking points?

Calgary Flames defensemen Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin have been frequent subjects of trade speculation throughout this season. In recent days, however, Flames goaltender Jacob Markstrom has also surfaced in the rumor mill as the March 8 trade deadline approaches.

Unlike Tanev and Hanifin, Markstrom isn't due to become a UFA on July 1. The 34-year-old netminder is signed through 2025-26 with an average annual value of $6 million and carries a full no-movement clause, according to PuckPedia.

The Hockey News Calgary's Steve Macfarlane believes Markstrom might fetch the best return for the Flames if he were to waive his clause. He felt the former Vezina Trophy winner could become busier in the Flames crease with Elias Lindholm already traded away and Tanev and Hanifin likely to be shipped out by the deadline.

Markstrom's $6-million cap hit would be a sticking point. Nevertheless, Macfarlane noted that it could be less than an obstacle as it seems with the Flames having all three of their salary-retention slots open. He suggested the Carolina Hurricanes, Colorado Avalanche and New Jersey Devils as possible suitors.

The Devils have reportedly already looked into acquiring Markstrom. The Hockey News Calgary's Randy Sportak cited Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, saying the respective managements of both clubs discussed the veteran goalie before their game on Feb. 8.

Friedman said he doesn't know if this was taken to Markstrom. However, he pointed out that the Flames' asking price plus salary retention were sticking points that stopped the discussion in its tracks.

In an interview last week with Friedman's colleague Eric Francis, Markstrom indicated he's keeping an open mind on the subject. He said he hasn't been approached by management about waiving his clause, nor does he intend to request a trade. However, Markstrom stated it was up to the team to decide what it would do.

Francis believes that leaves open the possibility of Markstrom accepting a trade for the right destination. That depends, of course, on whether the Flames get a suitable offer by March 8.