Andrew Copp's season-ending injury presents a challenge for the Detroit Red Wings as they approach the trade deadline. Copp was a key contributor, thriving under Coach Todd McLellan as a second-line center, but the team is in a unique position regarding their cap situation and roster depth. Moving Copp to long-term injured reserve won’t free up significant cap space, as Detroit already has ample room for moves without needing to account for his $5.625 million cap hit.

Despite the injury, the Red Wings should not feel pressured to make a drastic move for a replacement. The right fit is crucial, especially considering their current rebuild stage. Candidates like Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders are attractive but may come at a steep price, while Yanni Gourde of the Seattle Kraken is injured, complicating potential trades. Instead, J.T. Compher has stepped up, filling Copp's role effectively, and with other internal options available, the Red Wings may opt to look within rather than seek an external solution.

Yanni Gourde's recovery from January's sports hernia surgery has become a focal point for several NHL teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, who may look to acquire him as he approaches free agency. Expected to return around March 7, Gourde's history of winning two Stanley Cups with Tampa Bay adds to his appeal. The St. Louis Blues are also in the spotlight, with General Manager Doug Armstrong open to trades involving several players, notably goaltender Jordan Binnington. Quinton Byfield's name has surfaced in trade rumors as the Los Angeles Kings seek a playoff boost. Meanwhile, Mikko Rantanen's potential move looms with the Carolina Hurricanes reportedly offering him a lucrative deal, raising questions about his future with the Colorado Avalanche.

The Seattle Kraken are poised for significant changes ahead of the March 7 trade deadline, with several players potentially on the move. Defenseman Jamie Oleksiak and forward Oliver Bjorkstrand are at the forefront of trade chatter, with the Kraken reportedly considering offers for their assets. Brandon Tanev, who has a $3.5 million cap hit and is a pending unrestricted free agent, is widely expected to be traded, along with Jared McCann, who has a no-trade list in place. There’s also speculation surrounding Yanni Gourde, indicating the Kraken could be very active in the market.

With injuries affecting their roster and the team looking to build for the future, Seattle's front office is entertaining offers for various players. The sense around the league suggests that both McCann and Tanev are the most likely candidates to be moved, reflecting a strategic shift as the Kraken aim to enhance their roster.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches on March 7, anticipation builds among teams and fans alike. General managers are strategizing based on midseason scouting meetings, identifying players for trade to either enhance their rosters or unload underperformers. Among several candidates, Trent Frederic of the Boston Bruins, who hasn't matched his previous offensive output but remains a physical presence, stands out as a potential trade piece due to his favorable contract.

Similarly, Toronto Maple Leafs' Nick Robertson may be on the chopping block after failing to secure a consistent role, while Bowen Byram of the Buffalo Sabres, despite being young and talented, could attract interest given the Sabres' struggles. Ryan Donato of the Blackhawks is also generating buzz; he's on track for a career-high points total and could fetch a solid return as a rental. Rasmus Ristolainen from the Flyers is likely to be moved as Philadelphia starts restructuring. Lastly, Yanni Gourde's playoff experience may make him an appealing rental for contending teams.

The Seattle Kraken are increasingly considering trades as the season progresses. Key players like Yanni Gourde and Brandon Tanev feature on the no-doubt trade candidates list, suggesting they could be moved to enhance team performance or future prospects.

Meanwhile, the team is also weighing options around players such as Josh Mahura, Oliver Bjorkstrand, and Andre Burakovsky, who could potentially be traded if the right offer comes along. Other names such as Jaden Schwartz and Vince Dunn are on the radar but are less likely to leave without substantial offers.

Among the trade rumors, Jared McCann stands out, possibly heading to the Winnipeg Jets. The Kraken's defensive depth could lead to moves involving players like Matt Grzelcyk from the Pittsburgh Penguins, who are also looking to make impactful trades for future success.