NHL Trade Deadline Rumors: Ranking the Top 5 Players On the Wish List

NHL Trade Deadline Rumors: Ranking the Top 5 Players On the Wish List

We've already seen a handful of teams make some splashes in NHL free agency, but now that the deadline is two weeks away, we should see plenty of action moving forward. The New York Rangers recently traded for four-time All-Star Vladimir Tarasenko from the St. Louis Blues and the Toronto Maple Leafs traded for Ryan O'Reilly. What other big names will we see traded?

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With a little over two months left of the NHL regular season, now is the time several teams need to make a push to earn themselves a playoff spot. Acquiring a big name such as the ones we will break down should give those teams the extra boost they need.

Let's break down the top five players that should be on every team's wish list.

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NHL Trade Deadline Rumors

5. Brock Boeser

Boeser, the right winger for the Vancouver Canucks, would make for an excellent addition to many team's rosters. Brock still has two more seasons and $6.65 million still left on his contract in Vancouver but is looking for a new home. The 25-year-old landed inside the Top 30 in the league in shots attempted per game last season. At 6'1, and 206 lbs, Boeser is a tough competitor and fights off defenders with ease. Although he has dealt with a multitude of injuries throughout his young career, Brock would likely add depth to a team on the second line.

4. Vladislav Gavrikov

Gavrikov only has a $2.8 million cap hit, which is small enough that most teams would be able to afford. Currently leading the Blue Jackets in ice time, Vladislav is excellent at the penalty kill. What's special about Gavrikov is his willingness to win, no matter what it takes. He will use his entire body when it comes to his style of defending. Vladislav's recorded three goals and seven assists for ten points this season.

3. Patrick Kane

Although some people don't see Kane as having as much value as he used to, the Blackhawks legend is still extremely valuable. After 16 amazing seasons in Chicago, Kane is looking to leave. Patrick is currently averaging 0.7 points per game, his personal worst. However, his poor statline can be blamed on how terrible the Blackhawks have been this year, as well as his hip issues. Even though the 34-year-old was hoping to land in New York, he'll have to look at other options now that Tarasenko is on their roster. Kane's been awarded the Art Ross Trophy, Ted Lindsay Award, Hart Memorial Trophy, Conn Smythe Trophy, and Calder Memorial Trophy, in addition to winning three Stanley Cups.

2. Jakob Chychrun

The Coyotes have been holding Chychrun out of the lineup until there is an official trade due to the defender's injury history. Chychrun is one of the best offensive defenders out there. With great hands, mobility, and strength, Jakob has the characteristics teams are looking for. At 6'2, and 210 lbs, he wins puck battles frequently.

With excellent skating and puck handling skills, Chychrun would make the most sense in a team’s middle pair. Jakob has $4.65 million left in his contract, which is a reasonable amount for his hockey skills.

1. Timo Meier

San Jose's scoring left-winger is one of the smartest hockey players. Meier is brilliant when it comes to what to do on the ice. It's as simple as that. Through his 51 games played this year, Timo has compiled 28 goals and 20 assists. A team that is looking for a consistent goal-scorer for a top-6 wing role should go after Meier. Head Coach David Quinn of the Sharks said "He’s an elite player in this league. He’s a very difficult guy to contain."

A team that is looking to make a legitimate run for the Stanley Cup would benefit immensley from Meier. It's looking like the New Jersey Devils and the Carolina Hurricanes are two of the most realistic options for Timo.

Keep your eyes and ears on the NHL trade deadline; exhilarating moves are going to be made at any moment.