Deadline Madness

Today is the trade deadline in the NHL, and I have no idea who will be moved, but in an effort to help, I will be offering some "sage" advice to those teams wondering if they should be buying or selling.  This will cover the bubble teams, otherwise known as the 5-12 teams in the Western Conference and 7-13 teams in the Easter Conference (which will be covered in the next piece) within earshot of the playoffs. (Numbers reflect where team stands as of this morning)

WESTERN CONFERENCE


5. Los Angeles Kings: They've been looking for that goal scorer on the wing, and Ales Hemsky and Dustin Penner of Edmonton are rumored to be on their wish list.  Question is...what would the Kings give up to get either one?  They have to think about resigning players on their team, and both carry hefty price tags.

6. Calgary Flames: They've played their way back into the playoff chase, and having some scoring options would really help here, especially in the middle.  Question is...do you mess with team chemistry that's been developed in recent weeks?  They're one of the hottest teams in that time, and clearly would benefit from a trade.  However, do they do that at the expense of chemistry and the future?

7. Minnesota Wild: They're in the hunt because of their goaltending and opportune scoring.  Do they make a move for more offense or try to maintain team chemistry?  A team that relies heavily on goaltending needs breathing room on offense, but do you pull the trigger if the right deal presents itself?

8. Chicago Blackhawks: Signing Brent Seabrook to a five year extension just might sink this team beyond this year.  Yes, they're still in the playoff hunt, but was signing him to that deal now necessary?  If they  don't make the playoffs, be ready for another fire sale.

9. Dallas Stars: The $10 Million dollar question is what the Stars do with Brad Richards.  Yes, they're still in the playoff hunt, but do you move him to get prospects or do you keep him and risk getting nothing for him in free angency?  The crystal ball says the Stars will likely fleece the Rangers into trading a blue chip prospect for Richards.

10. Nashville Predators: Always near the bottom of the playoff ladder, their need has been the same since the beginning of their existence: offense.  Trading from their wealth of blue line prospects would be good, but in the long term, the Preds have to worry about resigning Shea Weber, their best defenseman.

11. Anaheim Ducks: They've already made moves before the deadline, but will it be enough?  I don't see how Dan Ellis will solve the goaltending hole that Jonas Hiller left due to injuries.  The Ducks will be a tough out in the playoffs, but they have to get there first, and I just don't see that with their goaltending situation right now.

12. Columbus Blue Jackets:  They should be selling.  Too many bodies to jump over, and not enough firepower on the blue line to really make a difference.  Their goaltending isn't that great, either.