The Atlantic Division has plenty of noteworthy names to be dealt at the trade deadline. That includes the notorious Brad Marchand (Baby, bay-bay) and "Original Misfit," Alex Tuch. These players could make the Vegas Golden Knights tremendously better at the wing, giving them more scoring options to annoy their opponents.
But if you thought the Atlantic Division had plenty of names for trading, wait until you see the Metropolitan Division. Names like Erik Karlsson, Reilly Smith, and even Sidney Crosby have been floated as potential trade deadline pieces. Of course, you can't forget the traditional "eyeball" emoji from Kevin Weekes as you say this with a random picture of a city.
But what makes the other Eastern Conference division so appealing? Is it the names that have already been dealt that are still looking for new homes? Could there be a bigger fish waiting that could leave hockey fans flowing new, saltier water into Lake Mead? That's what makes this special.
There's no question Kelly McCrimmon would love to get his hands on another winger. Watching Alexander Holtz fall apart like a loose street taco has been unsettling for Las Vegans everywhere. The hunt is on for a potential replacement to win the Stanley Cup. With that, here are three names that come to mind for McCrimmon to potentially acquire by the trade deadline. (including a BIG shocker).
Kyle Palmieri, New York Islanders
Brandon Saad was the first winger on board for the Vegas Golden Knights pre-trade deadline in 2024-25. He's fitting in nicely with the team after being signed, adding scoring depth in more ways than one for his new team. But another winger who could fit that mold is Kyle Palmieri of the New York Islanders.
The 34-year-old has 16 goals and 21 assists this season, making him perfect on the right side of the lineup. He's also improving his two-way game, doing whatever it takes to get to the front of the net. Fans will fall in love with his quick release and veteran presence as well. His cap hit of $5 million won't be too problematic, especially if Shea Theodore is moved to LTIR.
Andrei Kuzmenko, Philadelphia Flyers
According to numerous reports, the Philadelphia Flyers are considering trading Andrei Kuzmenko by the trade deadline. The Flyers are playing like the anti-Eagles right now, getting pushed around by their tushes (55 points, last in the Metropolitan Division).
What does he bring to the table? He's good at taking away the puck (14 takeaways) and contributing to the attack. He has 12 assists which would work well on the lower lines. The Russian winger also has a nose for the puck, fighting to turn anything loose in front of the net into goals. The winger has a $5.5 million cap hit with the team, which might not be worth getting for his stat lines. Still, it'll be a chance to prove himself if he's moved.
Mikko Rantanen, Carolina Hurricanes
Yes, you read that right. THEE Mikko Rantanen could be on the trading block again. Hockey fans know what kind of extraordinary talent the Finnish winger is. He has 26 goals and 40 assists this season, making him one of the game's best weapons.
If the Hurricanes can't agree on an extension, look for McCrimmon to make a move and give his top line a fun new toy for Eichel. Fans are already spoiled with the offensively-rich talent the team has. Granted, it'll come at a hefty price consisting of countless draft picks, prospects, and the cap hit. Plus, Carolina is contending for a Stanley Cup. But one can dream of the salty river of tears flowing from 31 other teams, right?