Defensemen Among Most-Speculated Trade Candidates As Deadline Approaches

Defensemen on the Calgary Flames and Philadelphia Flyers are among those frequently surfacing in speculation ahead of the NHL trade deadline.

We recently looked at notable goaltenders and forwards garnering attention in the NHL trade market. With the March 8 deadline fast approaching, here's a look at the speculation regarding the top trade candidates among defensemen.

Hanifin's preferred trade destination is the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Hockey News' Steve Macfarlane noted the Lightning's lack of first-round picks in the next two NHL drafts. He believes they'll have to part with top prospects, such as Isaac Howard and Ethan Gauthier, if they hope to package an offer that tempts the Flames.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman believes the Boston Bruins have also contacted the Flames about Hanifin. He's also heard mixed responses regarding the Florida Panthers' rumored interest.

Remy Mastey cited TSN's Darren Dreger, saying he senses action around Chyhcrun has picked up with the market for defensemen shrinking.

The 25-year-old Senators rearguard has a year left on his contract with an average annual value of $4.6 million and a 10-team no-trade clause.

Senators GM Steve Staios is believed to be listening to offers for Chychrun but isn't in a hurry to move him. He could wait until the off-season for better trade proposals if he's unable to get him signed to a contract extension by then.

The Hockey News' Siobhan Nolan cited Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman's report that the Flyers remain open to trading Walker and Seeler. However, they've been the club's most reliable defensive pairing. Nolan believes all signs point to both players staying put as contract discussions continue with management.

Kevin Kurz of The Athletic also noted that the Flyers remain in contract talks with both defensemen. However, his colleague Pierre LeBrun and Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli believe one of them could be moved, with Walker considered the most likely candidate.

Savard has a year remaining on his contract, but he could be enticing to clubs seeking more than a rental player for their blueline. The Athletic's Arpon Basu reports the Canadiens are happy to retain the 32-year-old rearguard as he continues to mentor their young defensemen.

Savard carries a cap hit of $3.2 million through next season. Basu believes the Canadiens' asking price to retain half of the blueliner's cap hit is a first-round pick.