As the March 7 NHL trade deadline approaches, teams are evaluating their rosters, with many seeking to trade veterans for future assets while others look to enhance their playoff chances. Among the notable pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs) likely to be moved before the deadline are Brock Nelson of the New York Islanders, David Savard from the Montreal Canadiens, and Nick Bjugstad of the Utah Hockey Club. Each player brings a unique skill set and playoff experience that could significantly impact a contending team.

Brock Nelson, with a $6 million cap hit, has been an integral part of the Islanders' lineup and boasts a respectable 36 points this season. David Savard, despite a lower point total, offers invaluable playoff experience, particularly from his time helping the Tampa Bay Lightning secure the Stanley Cup. Meanwhile, Nick Bjugstad has proven himself in the postseason, making him an appealing trade target for teams looking to bolster their forward depth. Other UFAs like Brock Boeser and Jake Evans are also generating trade interest due to their offensive capabilities and strong two-way play, respectively.

The Utah Hockey Club is experiencing significant challenges on home ice, managing only one win in their first four games of a January homestand. With a record of three wins in their last 14 games in Salt Lake City, the team has the fewest home victories in the NHL. Forward Nick Bjugstad expressed the team's frustration, acknowledging the support from fans and the need for self-reflection as they strive to improve.

Despite their struggles at home, the team's road success keeps them in playoff contention, with twelve away wins this season. Inconsistent scoring has plagued the club, averaging 1.8 goals per game at home while conceding 3.0 goals.

The team has faced several tight finishes, with seven consecutive home games decided by a single goal. Coach Andre Tourigny emphasized the importance of building a relationship with their fan base and the pressures that come with striving for improvement.

The Utah Hockey Club is struggling to find success at home, having achieved only one win in their first four games of January. Despite a strong fanbase, the team has faltered in Salt Lake City, winning just three of its last 14 home games and recording the fewest home victories in the NHL. Forward Nick Bjugstad expressed concern for the fans, indicating that the team needs to reflect and dig deeper to overcome this hurdle.

In contrast, Utah has enjoyed significant road success, contributing to their playoff hopes. However, inconsistent offensive performances at home have hindered their ability to gain momentum. Over their last four home games, they allowed an average of three goals while scoring only 1.8. Coach Andre Tourigny acknowledged the pressure the team feels, emphasizing the importance of building a relationship with their fans.

The Montreal Canadiens triumphed over the Utah Hockey Club with a 5-3 victory, showcasing an impressive performance from Kirby Dach, who scored twice. Other notable contributions came from Mike Matheson, Patrik Laine, and Cole Caufield, with Lane Hutson assisting on three goals.

Despite a shaky start where they allowed a 5-on-3 power-play goal early in the game, the Canadiens found their footing. Sam Montembeault made 22 saves, while Utah's Karel Vejmelka had 21 stops. The game saw Utah's scoring from Logan Cooley, Josh Doan, and Nick Bjugstad, with Clayton Keller providing two assists.

The Montreal Canadiens triumphed over the Utah Hockey Club with a 5-3 victory, continuing their strong season with eight wins in the last ten games. Kirby Dach led the charge with two goals, while contributions came from Mike Matheson, Patrik Laine, and Cole Caufield, who netted his team-leading 24th goal. Lane Hutson impressed with three assists, and Alexandre Carrier added two, while goaltender Sam Montembeault made 22 saves.

Utah's efforts included goals from Logan Cooley, Josh Doan, and Nick Bjugstad, with Clayton Keller assisting twice. Karel Vejmelka recorded 21 saves in net. The game saw John Marino make his debut for Utah after a long recovery from back surgery, having missed 42 games since his move from New Jersey.

Despite a rocky start, where Montreal allowed a goal during a 5-on-3 power play in the opening minutes, they improved to finish with a shot advantage of 26-25. The Canadiens will look to maintain their momentum against the Dallas Stars, while Utah prepares to host the New York Rangers.