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.