There’s, of course, a lot of talk about Taylor Hall these days. Rightfully so as he’s perhaps the biggest trade ticket available before this year’s NHL Trade Deadline. That said, he’s not the only potential piece being moved out of New Jersey.
Justin Emerson of The Las Vegas Sun suggests Sami Vantanen should be added to that list.
Vatanen could become available out of New Jersey as the Devils’ season slips away and one team that might have an interest is the Vegas Golden Knights who are looking for depth on their blue line. Vatanen might fit in nicely.
Because Vatanen will become an unrestricted free agent next July, one should caution how interested the Golden Knights might be considering they rarely go for rentals, but don’t rule out the possibility they see him as more than that.
Vegas has a desire to shift Nate Schmidt or Shea Theodore back to the left side and permanently, if possible. Vatanen also has experience on the power play and the Golden Knights see him fitting there as well, on their second unit. The asking price and the cost to keep him will be the determining factors.
What a Trade Might Look Like
Emerson says it could cost the Golden Knights draft picks or prospects (something the Golden Knights have plenty of). And, the team has cap space available next season if the price is right to retain him.
Keep in mind, there is a chance the Golden Knights go looking for a bigger fish in free agency. Rumors were they had interest in Alex Pietrangelo out of St. Louis but the Blues aren’t willing to move their captain while they try to repeat as Stanley Cup Champions. There is also some speculation Vegas could be keeping an eye on the rest of Tyson Barrie’s season in Toronto.
