Top 5 NHL Trade Candidates to Watch in 2022: Atlantic Division

With the roster freeze in effect, here's a look at five of the top NHL trade candidates from the Atlantic Division head into 2022.

The NHL's holiday roster freeze is in effect until 12:01 am ET on Dec. 28. This week, we'll look at the notable trade candidates from each division to watch in 2022. Today, we start with the Atlantic.

Ben Chiarot, Montreal Canadiens

The floundering Canadiens are expected to be sellers by the March 21 trade deadline. Chiarot, 30, is slated to become an unrestricted free agent next summer and might not wish to be part of a rebuild. Some pundits believe he could fetch a first-round pick.

Jake DeBrusk, Boston Bruins

Having struggled in recent years to regain his early-career scoring form, DeBrusk requested a trade in late November. While there was believed to be considerable interest in the 25-year-old winger, the Bruins are reportedly seeking a player of comparable value.

Robert Hagg, Buffalo Sabres

Before Hagg was listed as month-to-month with a lower-body injury, The Athletic's John Vogl suggested the defensive-minded blueliner would draw interest from contenders. That could still be the case if he returns to action before the trade deadline.

Justin Holl, Toronto Maple Leafs

It was reported in early November the Leafs could part with Holl or Travis Dermott for the right price. The 29-year-old Holl seems the likely candidate given his age and $2.5-million salary-cap hit through 2022-23.

Nick Leddy, Detroit Red Wings

The 30-year-old defenseman was No. 6 on TSN's first trade-bait board of the season on Dec. 8. Like Chiarot, he's a UFA next summer and could draw interest from playoff contenders. However, the Wings could be unwilling to part with him if they're still in the Eastern Conference playoff chase by the trade deadline.