Mika Zibanejad remains the pivotal figure for the New York Rangers, influencing their success and playoff fate. With nine seasons under his belt, his role as a center is increasingly challenged, as he struggles with stamina and speed. Recent fluctuations in his position indicate uncertainty from the coaching staff. General Manager Chris Drury's approach may shift towards acquiring a two-way third-line center, potentially from teams looking to offload players as the playoffs loom.

The Rangers also require a top-four defenseman, but immediate solutions might be scarce. Zibanejad's transition to a top-six winger could open up avenues for trades that affect the team's salary cap, potentially clearing space for significant acquisitions. The future of the Rangers hinges on Zibanejad's adaptability and the management's strategic decisions.

Brady Skjei and Filip Forsberg each scored two goals as the Nashville Predators defeated the Buffalo Sabres 6-4, snapping a six-game losing streak. Jonathan Marchessault contributed with a goal and two assists, while Ryan O'Reilly recorded four assists. Justus Annunen made 25 saves to secure the win. The Sabres ended their four-game winning streak despite notable performances from Alex Tuch and Rasmus Dahlin, who both scored and assisted in the game.

The Predators jumped to a quick 2-0 lead, but the Sabres leveled the score before Forsberg and Skjei's back-to-back goals restored Nashville's lead. Though Buffalo nearly tied the game late on a potential Zach Benson goal, a successful Predators challenge revealed an offside, preserving their lead and ultimately the win.

The Nashville Predators are facing a disheartening reality as they struggle to recover from a poor start to the season. Currently sitting 16 points away from a wild-card playoff spot, their hopes for postseason action are diminishing with five consecutive losses. GM Barry Trotz's comments regarding a potential rebuild indicate a willingness to trade veteran players for younger talent if performance does not improve, a situation that has become increasingly likely.

Key players like Ryan O'Reilly, Gustav Nyquist, and Colton Sissons have been highlighted as potential trade candidates ahead of the March 7 trade deadline. O'Reilly, a seasoned center, has shown solid production, while Nyquist, despite a lackluster season, has a strong playoff pedigree. Sissons brings valuable experience, particularly as a faceoff specialist. As the team navigates these uncertain waters, the Predators may soon face hard decisions regarding their roster's future.

The Philadelphia Flyers face pressing decisions regarding their roster, particularly at the center position. With limited options available, general manager Daniel Briere must navigate a tight market. The team’s latest moves, including trading Morgan Frost and Joel Farabee for Andrei Kuzmenko, suggest a shift in strategy, possibly towards a longer-term view. Dylan Cozens remains off the table for now, and the Flyers must also contend with financial commitments extending into 2026, which complicates potential trades for centers like J.T. Miller or Elias Pettersson. The need for a more patient approach is highlighted as injuries plague the roster.

Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets are actively seeking forwards to bolster their playoff ambitions. Top names like Brock Nelson and Ryan O'Reilly have emerged in trade talks, although Nelson's availability is questionable as the March 7 deadline approaches. Yanni Gourde's absence due to injury creates additional challenges for the Jets, who are also considering Brock Boeser, a player known for his scoring ability but seen as a less aggressive offensive option. The Jets’ management must weigh these factors carefully as they aim to deepen their lineup before the playoffs.

Brandt Clarke, the Los Angeles Kings' 21-year-old defenseman, has faced challenges this season with diminished playtime, particularly following the return of veteran Drew Doughty. Clarke's tally of three goals and 21 assists in 48 games showcases his potential, particularly given that he has maintained a positive plus-minus rating despite the Kings being 28th in the league in scoring. With the Kings eyeing a playoff berth but struggling offensively, he may become an attractive trade candidate for teams like the Nashville Predators, especially as they seek to build for the future.

The Kings' current strategy might necessitate moving Clarke, as Doughty and other veterans like Anze Kopitar age. Meanwhile, the team’s pressing need for immediate offensive production could lead to possible acquisitions, with names like Ryan O'Reilly and Gustav Nyquist being highlighted. While Clarke's performance this season suggests high potential, the Kings must weigh this against their immediate playoff ambitions and the possibility of fortifying their roster through trades.