Trade Rumours - 2025/03/03
- Lucas Baiocco
- Mar 3
- 4 min read
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, rumors are swirling around several notable players. Understanding how potential trades could impact their fantasy hockey value is crucial for managers aiming to make informed decisions. Here's a breakdown of key players involved in recent trade speculations and projections of their fantasy outlook based on current statistics.
Erik Karlsson (92% Rostered)
Trade Rumors: Karlsson has been at the center of trade discussions, with the Pittsburgh Penguins reportedly open to moving the star defenseman ahead of the NHL trade deadline. General Manager Kyle Dubas is considering offers, but Karlsson's substantial $10 million salary cap hit poses challenges for potential suitors. Additionally, Karlsson holds a full no-movement clause, granting him control over any potential trade destinations.
Current Season Stats (Per Game) & Projected Change:
Games Played: 63
Goals: 8 (0.13 per game) → +0.05 (+38%)
Assists: 37 (0.59 per game) → +0.12 (+20%)
Points: 45 (0.71 per game) → +0.17 (+24%)
PIM: 18 (0.29 per game) → +0.05 (+17%)
Power Play Goals: 1 (0.016 per game) → +0.007 (+44%)
Power Play Points: 12 (0.19 per game) → +0.06 (+32%)
Shots: 154 (2.44 per game) → +0.30 (+12%)
Hits: 20 (0.32 per game) → No significant change expected
Blocks: 77 (1.22 per game) → -0.18 (-15%) (May take fewer defensive responsibilities)
Fantasy Impact:
Karlsson's offensive numbers could improve significantly if traded to a team with a high-powered offense, especially in assists and power-play production. Fantasy managers should monitor rumors closely, as a move could elevate his fantasy ceiling.
Fantasy Outlook: If Karlsson remains with the Penguins, his fantasy production is expected to continue at its current pace. However, a trade to a contending team could rejuvenate his offensive contributions, potentially increasing his assist and power-play point totals. Managers should monitor trade developments closely, as a move could enhance Karlsson's value, especially if he joins a team with a potent offense.
Sources:
Nazem Kadri (63% Rostered)
Trade Rumors: Kadri's name has resurfaced in trade rumors, with discussions suggesting a potential return to the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Calgary Flames are reportedly considering moving the veteran center, especially if they fall out of playoff contention. Kadri's full no-movement clause and $7 million cap hit through the 2028-29 season are significant factors in any potential trade.
Current Season Stats (Per Game) & Projected Change:
Games Played: 60
Goals: 21 (0.35 per game) → +0.08 (+22%) (Better linemates could result in higher conversion rate)
Assists: 23 (0.38 per game) → +0.10 (+26%)
Points: 44 (0.73 per game) → +0.18 (+25%)
PIM: 63 (1.05 per game) → +0.20 (+19%)
Power Play Goals: 5 (0.083 per game) → +0.03 (+36%)
Power Play Points: 16 (0.27 per game) → +0.08 (+30%)
Shots: 202 (3.37 per game) → +0.50 (+15%)
Hits: 43 (0.72 per game) → No significant change expected
Blocks: 23 (0.38 per game) → No significant change expected
Fantasy Impact:
Kadri's offensive numbers could spike if he lands in a top-six role on a contending team, especially with an uptick in assists and power-play production. While his penalty minutes and physical play will likely remain unchanged, his fantasy relevance could rise notably in the right situation.
Fantasy Outlook: A trade to a team like the Maple Leafs could impact Kadri's role and ice time, potentially affecting his fantasy production. However, joining a high-powered offense might offset any reduction in individual minutes, maintaining or even boosting his point totals. Fantasy managers should weigh the potential risks and rewards of a trade, considering both the player's new role and the team's offensive dynamics.
Sources:
Mikko Rantanen (100% Rostered)
Trade Rumors: Rantanen was traded from the Colorado Avalanche to the Carolina Hurricanes on January 24, 2025. Since joining the Hurricanes, he has recorded six points in 11 games. However, his future with Carolina remains uncertain due to his pending unrestricted free agent status. The Hurricanes are reportedly considering trading him before the March 7 deadline if they cannot secure a contract extension. Teams like the Los Angeles Kings and Toronto Maple Leafs have shown interest in acquiring Rantanen.
Current Season Stats (Per Game) & Projected Change:
Games Played: 60
Goals: 27 (0.45 per game) → +0.05 (+11%)
Assists: 43 (0.72 per game) → +0.08 (+11%)
Points: 70 (1.17 per game) → +0.13 (+11%)
PIM: 36 (0.60 per game) → No significant change expected
Power Play Goals: 9 (0.15 per game) → +0.02 (+13%)
Power Play Points: 21 (0.35 per game) → +0.04 (+11%)
Shots: 170 (2.83 per game) → +0.20 (+7%)
Hits: 36 (0.60 per game) → No significant change expected
Blocks: 34 (0.57 per game) → No significant change expected
Fantasy Outlook: Rantanen's fantasy value is closely tied to his team context. A trade to a team with a stronger offensive system could enhance his scoring opportunities, while a move to a less potent offense might suppress his production. Fantasy managers should monitor trade developments closely, as Rantanen's role, linemates, and overall team performance will significantly influence his fantasy output.
Sources:
These projections assume both players land in favorable situations where their offensive roles increase. If they stay put, expect their current per-game rates to hold steady. Fantasy managers should keep a close eye on trade developments before making any major roster moves!
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