UPDATE:
The Blackhawks have traded for Andrew Ladd. All the details on the trade are here.
Original Story Follows Below:
The NHL Trade Deadline is just four days away and speculation is starting to pick up steam. It might end up being a quieter deadline than recent years, as there isn't as much big-name talent linked to possible deals. There will still be several moves made, including some with well-known players. With the rumors starting to pick up speed, we're here to details the most intriguing ones for Feb. 24th.
Blackhawks Targeting Ladd And Others?
At this point, the Blackhawks' interest in Winnipeg Jets forward Andrew Ladd is already well-known. However, Ladd isn't the only player the Blackhawks are looking into trading for.
Hearing that #Blackhawks have serious interest in Hamhuis & Vrbata. No word yet on whether Hamhuis is willing to waive NTC. #Canucks
— Farhan Lalji (@FarhanLaljiTSN) February 25, 2016
Radim Vrbata and Dam Hamhuis both play for the Vancouver Canucks and will be unrestricted free agents. Hamhuis has a full no-trade clause he would need to waive, while Vrbata has a limited one. Vrbata played for Chicago from 2005-07. For more Blackhawks coverage, download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app.
Panthers Out On Ladd?
Speaking of Ladd, the Florida Panthers' interest in the forward appears to be cooling.
Hearing #FlaPanthers cooling on Andrew Ladd because of high price. Word is first round pick, top prospect for what would likely be a rental.
— George Richards (@GeorgeRichards) February 25, 2016
That's a very steep price for Ladd, who is the top rental available this offseason. It could also help explain why the Blackhawks are looking at other options.
NOW READ: The 4 Players Likely To Be Traded (And Where They'll Go)
Staal Wants To Stay With Hurricanes?
Carolina Hurricanes forward Eric Staal is one of the bigger names on the trade block. While Staal has said he wouldn't be crushed about a trade, Bob McKenzie reports Staal's preference is to stay with Carolina. Staal has spent his entire career with the Hurricanes.
McKenzie also mentions the New York Rangers as a possible landing spot for Staal. The Hurricanes would need to east some of Staal's salary, but that would increase the return they receive for the winger. Plus, Eric's older brother Marc is on the Rangers. For more the possible trade of Staal, download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app.
Lightning Want To Deal Drouin
This isn't much of a surprise, but GM Steve Yzerman wants to deal forward Jonathan Drouin before the deadline.
"I definitely prefer to deal him sooner than later, it would be better for everyone," Yzerman told the Tampa Bay Times Wednesday. "A lot of things factor into it when making the trade, a lot of things to consider here. But number one is, 'Can I do something involving Jonathan that benefits the team that makes us better right now that helps us for the playoffs? I'd certainly like to do that."
The disgruntled former No. 3 overall pick has requested a trade from the Lightning, who suspended him earlier this year.
Back to the NHL Newsfeed