Top 4 NHL Trade Candidates to Watch in 2022: Metropolitan Division

With the roster freeze in effect, here's a look at five of the top NHL trade candidates from the Metropolitan Division heading 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. On Monday, we looked at the Atlantic Division. Today, we turn to the Metropolitan.

Claude Giroux, Philadelphia Flyers

The Flyers' struggles this season and Giroux's status as an unrestricted free agent next summer have generated speculation over his future in Philadelphia. He recently said his focus is on reversing his club's fortunes and not on waiving his no-movement clause. That won't keep his name out of the rumor mill if the Flyers fail to gain ground in the standings.

Joonas Korpisalo, Columbus Blue Jackets

There was talk earlier this season the Blue Jackets were entertaining offers for Korpisalo. The 27-year-old goaltender is a UFA next summer. With Elvis Merzlikins entrenched as the Jackets' starter and Daniil Tarasov showing promise during his recent call-up, ESPN's Emily Kaplan reported the Jackets could part ways with Korpisalo.

Vitali Kravtsov, New York Rangers

The 21-year-old right winger sat seventh on TSN's Trade Bait board for December. He returned to Russia in October after refusing to report to the Rangers' AHL affiliate in Hartford. Kravtsov is on loan with KHL team Chelyabinsk so he's unavailable until this KHL season is over. Nevertheless, his potential could be enticing for clubs seeking a young winger.

P.K. Subban, New Jersey Devils

Slated to become a UFA at season's end, the 32-year-old Subban is no longer an elite defenseman. Still, his big shot and puck-moving skills could draw interest among playoff contenders. His $9-million cap hit, however, remains a sticking point.