NHL Trade Reality Check: Stolarz, Andersson, Hamilton

The weeks leading up to the NHL trade deadline are defined by a constant barrage of speculation. For every blockbuster deal that actually crosses the finish line, there are dozens of scenarios discussed in front offices that never see the light of day. In this series, called NHL Trade Reality Check, we take a daily look at two-to-three of the biggest names floating around the rumour mill.

From there, we’ll separate them by what’s believable and what’s just trade deadline speculation. 

Anthony Stolarz On the Trade Block

Believability Rank: Not Believable

There has been recent chatter suggesting the Toronto Maple Leafs could look to move Anthony Stolarz to clear cap space for a defensive upgrade. The reports came from Nick Kypreos who seems pretty tuned into what goes on behind the scenes. The thinking is that Joseph Woll is healthy and playing well. As well as the emergence of Dennis Hildeby. This leaves Stolarz as a piece that could be flipped to help upgrade the roster.

Unfortunately, the Maple Leafs have spent years trying to find stability between the pipes. And now they have it with their three goalies. But with their depleted blue line, they could elect to trade a goalie who provides stability and helps improve their back end. However, Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving is far more likely to move a depth forward or a future asset than trade Stolarz. 

Rasmus Andersson Being a Target For the Maple Leafs

Believability Rank: Less Believable

As the Calgary Flames continue shifting toward a younger core. Rasmus Andersson has emerged as the most sought-after right-shot defenseman on the market. The belief around the league is that Calgary would be willing to move him. But only if a team is willing to meet a massive asking price that includes multiple first-round picks.