James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports
The NHL’s March 7 trade deadline isn’t that far away, and by the time it does arrive, you can make a safe bet that the Vegas Golden Knights are going to pull off a couple of deals to strengthen their lineup, if not for the long-term, then certainly, for the rest of this season and next spring’s Stanley Cup playoffs. What players could be targeted by Vegas?
Here are three possibilities:
1. Ivan Provorov, D, Columbus Blue Jackets
Provorov is scheduled to be a UFA at season’s end, making him a pure rental for the Golden Knights. But, we all should know by now Vegas GM Kelly McCrimmon plays for keeps, even if it is only in the short term. And Provorov’s $4.725-million salary cap hit (all financial info via Puck Pedia) makes him an affordable asset, even if another team might have to be involved to retain some salary. But the Golden Knights’ defense corps – already formidable with the addition of Noah Hanifin last season – would arguably be the best in the NHL with Provorov on board.
And Columbus wouldn’t be expecting the world in any deal for Provorov. Years ago, the asking price for Provorov would’ve been sky-high, but times have changed, and while the Blue Jackets would need a top draft pick or above-average prospect for Provorov, a deal could be done for him without sending marquee names to Columbus in return. And as an elite depth addition, Provorov would be a terrific addition for Vegas.
2. Michael Carcone, LW, Utah Hockey Club
The Golden Knights don’t have to include a marquee name in every deal they make, and while Carcone isn’t a household name – and with his production this season of only five assists and eight points in 25 games – Carcone is only a year removed from posting 21 goals in 74 games last season. His $775,000 salary, and his status as a pending UFA, make Carcone very attractive for any Stanley Cup front-runner, and Vegas wouldn’t have to offer Utah the sun, moon and stars in any trade.
Vegas already has great depth up front, but you never can have too much depth as you approach a playoff run, and that’s why the Golden Knights make sense as a landing spot for Carcone. He could get a fresh start in the Nevada desert, and prove to be a positive addition for the Golden Knights.
3. Nikolaj Ehlers, LW, Winnipeg Jets
Injuries have limited the 28-year-old Ehlers to just 27 games so far this season, but the winger has produced well in that limited action, posting 10 goals and 27 points. He’s also going to be a UFA at the end of this season, and he’s likely priced himself out of Winnipeg’s long-term cap picture. But, Vegas has become famous for finding ways to bring in experienced hands and squeeze them into their long-term plans, and Ehlers – who has a modified no-trade clause – would probably welcome the opportunity to play for a legitimate Cup-contender like the Golden Knights.
Another team might have to be involved to retain some of Ehlers’ $6-million salary, but where there’s a will, there’s a way. And Vegas would be even more of a Cup threat with Ehlers on the team.
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