Seattle Kraken Expected to Shop Mark Giordano

Mark Giordano was the most notable player chosen by the Seattle Kraken in last summer's expansion draft. With the March 21 NHL trade deadline just three weeks away, the 38-year-old defenseman could become their most valuable trade chip.

With the Kraken stuck in the depths of the Western Conference standings. Giordano's eligibility for unrestricted free agent status in July made him the subject of recent trade rumors. Last Thursday, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported the Kraken captain spoke with general manager Ron Francis and they agreed to explore the trade market for potential destinations.

Cap Friendly indicates Giordano carries a $6.75-million cap hit plus a 19-team list of preferred trade destinations. Despite his age, the 2019 Norris Trophy winner remains a mobile top-four defenseman who should draw interest from playoff contenders.

The Florida Panthers could be among the suitors. They're reportedly in the market for a defenseman with Giordano believed to be on their list of trade targets. The Boston Bruins desperately need left-side depth among their top-four blueliners. NBC Sports' Adam Gretz considers the Toronto Maple Leafs, St. Louis Blues and New York Rangers as the most logical landings spots.

Of those clubs, the Rangers have the advantage. They've got plenty of projected trade deadline cap space and lots of promising young assets to tempt Francis, who'll likely seek a return that helps him build up his prospect pipeline.

Earlier this year, there was speculation the Calgary Flames could try to bring him back. However, their recent acquisition of winger Tyler Toffoli and their limited salary cap space makes it unlikely he'll be returning to the Stampede City by deadline day.