The NHL is entering a critical week with the upcoming trade deadline on Friday. Six games are scheduled on deadline day, which is surprising given the potential player movements. As teams balance their playoff aspirations and potential trades, several key players are in the spotlight.

The Boston Bruins, currently on the playoff bubble, might consider trading Brad Marchand, especially after his recent upper-body injury. Meanwhile, David Pastrnak is on fire with a remarkable 17-game point streak. The Anaheim Ducks will rely on Lukas Dostal in net, as John Gibson's future remains uncertain amidst trade rumors.

For the Colorado Avalanche, Jonathan Drouin's recent contributions and Valeri Nichushkin's return from injury provide a silver lining. The New York Rangers are feeling the pressure, with Adam Fox on IR, and are hoping to make a significant move as they look for a turnaround.

St. Louis' Brayden Schenn is a player to watch, as he might be on the move, while Tampa Bay's Andrei Vasilevskiy is aiming to maintain his impressive form. With many teams playing multiple games this week, fatigue and performance will be crucial as the deadline approaches.

The Boston Bruins are seemingly committed to re-signing Brad Marchand, despite some uncertainty surrounding his future with the team. General Manager Don Sweeney indicated that while the team is negotiating an extension, they are open to discussions regarding Marchand’s potential trade value. The pressure is on Sweeney to ensure a fruitful reload of the roster, particularly as the trade deadline approaches. Interest from multiple teams including the Colorado Avalanche, Edmonton Oilers, and New Jersey Devils has been noted, suggesting that Marchand could fetch a significant return if the Bruins decide to explore trade options.

Meanwhile, the Columbus Blue Jackets are taking a different approach. GM Don Waddell has emphasized that they are not looking to sell at the deadline, focusing instead on developing their assets. The Blue Jackets may look to add players rather than part with key assets, particularly with Ivan Provorov being described as their best shutdown defenseman. This stance is indicative of a broader strategy aimed at building rather than dismantling their roster.

Trent Frederic, the Boston Bruins forward, is currently sidelined due to a lower-body injury, yet interest from other teams remains strong as the trade deadline approaches. Chris Johnston reports that Frederic's style of play, characterized by physicality and tenacity, makes him an attractive option for contenders looking to bolster their bottom six. Although the injury isn't deemed severe, its timing complicates trade discussions for the Bruins.

The Bruins are facing a challenging season with key players like Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm also injured. As they contemplate a potential rebuilding phase, GM Don Sweeney's decision-making is under scrutiny. Analysts suggest that while trading Frederic could be on the table, moving star players like Brad Marchand may not align with the Bruins' historical approach.

Brad Marchand, the Boston Bruins captain, is expressing a strong desire to remain with the team, as he discusses contract extension options with GM Don Sweeney. While the Bruins are considering a future-focused approach, Marchand's commitment to staying put contrasts with the team's potential shift towards younger players. This has attracted interest from various teams, including the Colorado Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights, further complicating the situation as the trade deadline approaches.

Meanwhile, Mikko Rantanen, freshly traded to the Carolina Hurricanes, is focused on adapting to his new environment despite being the subject of trade speculation himself. His performance has been commendable, indicating a strong drive to solidify his place in the lineup. Lastly, Seth Jones has made it clear he seeks a trade from the Chicago Blackhawks to join a contender, raising questions about the team’s strategy and the potential for a deal that could reshape their roster.

The Boston Bruins are approaching a critical trade deadline with a record of five consecutive losses, putting them four points behind a wild card playoff spot. The team’s chances of making the playoffs stand at just 12.3%, prompting discussions of a potential sell-off strategy as they aim to build for next season. Captain Brad Marchand acknowledged the challenges faced this season but emphasized the importance of team unity during adversity.

With approximately $5.7 million in salary cap space, the Bruins are in a position to broker trades, potentially acquiring draft picks while moving pending unrestricted free agents like Trent Frederic and Justin Brazeau. Both players bring valuable skills that could enhance a contending team's depth. Furthermore, Boston may contemplate moving defenseman Brandon Carlo, who has two years left on a team-friendly deal, if an attractive offer arises. The Bruins must also consider promoting young prospects like Georgii Merkulov and Fabian Lysell as they seek to revamp their roster.