With tight cap space, the Arizona Coyotes have been fielding interest on the team’s top two defenders – captain, Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Niklas Hjalmarsson.
Over the past week, both Albertan teams have reportedly expressed interest in discussing what an Ekman-Larsson deal might look like. Notably, when the Coyotes drafted Ekman-Larsson as their 6th overall selection in 2019, now Oilers Assistant GM Keith Gretzky was Head Scout in Arizona at the time. It was later said that Gretzky was adamant that the ‘Yotes take the Swedish superstar. Will the Oilers press hard in getting a deal done for the 29-year-old Ekman-Larsson?
Another team said to have some interest in Ekman-Larsson is the Boston Bruins. Losing Torey Krug to free agency this Fall will leave a big hole on the Bruin blue line. Specifically, it creates an offensive gap for the Bruins. While Ekman-Larson could help fill that void, it is unlikely that gets done. First and foremost, perhaps because of Ekman-Larsson’s contract.
Any team considering a trade for Ekman-Larsson will have to factor in his 2027 dated contract at an AAV of $8.25 million a year. Those are Big numbers.
D-Man Domino Effect
Fellow Swedish teammate, Niklas Hjalmarsson is also garnishing attention from NHL teams. Colorado Avalanche GM, Joe Sakic, has been rumoured to have had interest in the left-handed defenseman. The 33-year-old, three-time Stanley Cup Champion, is due $5 million before he becomes an UFA next season. Value wise that makes Hjalmarsson a decent option.
The Avalanche interest in Hjalmarsson could mean they are looking to upgrade on the blue line. With $22 million in available cap space, Colorado has room to help solidify the defence position. The absence of Erik Johnson in the 2020 playoffs only magnified a need to defensively improve on the back end.
The veteran presence of Hjalmarsson might also help with the arrival of two young rookies that are near ready. Connor Timmins and Bowen Byram will likely challenge for full time jobs with the Avs next season. All of these factors really tighten things up on the Avalanche blue line.
What Does That Mean for Zadorov?
Unfortunately for Nikita Zadorov, that likely means he will be looking for a new address next season. The punishing, left-handed D-man is an RFA and could likely get some attention for teams lacking a physical presence. A fan favorite in Colorado, there is plenty of chatter about what the Avs might do with Zadorov.
Zadorov signed a one-year deal in the summer of 2019 and because he is not an offensive threat by any stretch– posting four goals and nine assists for 13 points in his 64 games played, he could be the odd man out. His continual push down the lineup will only get more attention if the Avalanche add big names this offseason.
The domino D-Man effect is something to watch!
More must-reads: