Trade Deadline Day Needs: East edition

Hockey analyst Mike Brophy breaks down every NHL team in the Eastern Conference and their possible wants and needs heading into Trade Deadline day March 3.

Spector: Western Conference team needs.

What Thrashers want: Based on the fact they just traded away a player, Ilya Kovalchuk, that has more goals than any other NHLer since he entered the league in 2001-02, you’d have to think GM Don Waddell will be on the lookout for offence. But it doesn’t end there. The Thrashers are thin on the blueline and an upgrade in net wouldn’t go unnoticed. Frankly, the Thashers need help everywhere.

What Thrashers can give: There are probably no untouchables on the Thrashers, although Tobias Enstrom, Bryan Little (even though he is having an off-season), Evander Kane and Zach Bogosian come close. Maxim Afinogenov is enjoying a very good year, but there is some fear that with Kovalchuk gone, his output might be affected. Still, a team looking for a rental player might roll the dice on him. Also, with Colby Armstrong set to be an unrestricted free agent in the summer, there’s a good chance he’ll be shipped out.

Restricted Free Agents: Bryan Little, Ondrej Pavelec.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Slava Kozlov, Colby Armstrong, Jim Slater, Maxim Afinogenov, Eric Boulton, Pavel Kubina, Mark Popovic, Johan Hedberg.

No-trade Clause: Ron Hainsey, Slava Kozlov, Pavel Kubina.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Angelo Esposito, 20
Stats: GP 12 – G 0 – A 4 – P 4, Chicago Wolves, AHL
Description: A creative and offensively-gifted forward.

Carl Klingberg, 19
Stats: GP 35 – G 4 – A 4 – P 8, Frolunda, SEL
Description: A speedy two-way forward.

Jeremy Morin, 18
Stats: GP 47 – G 37 – A 32 – P 69, Kitchener Rangers, OHL
Description: A pure goalscorer with uncanny ability to find open areas to unleash his hard and accurate wrist-shot.

Patrice Cormier, 19
Stats: GP 31 – G 11 – A 20 – P 31, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, QMJHL
Description: A gritty, two-way forward. He is currently serving a season and playoff-long suspension.

Analysis: This is a franchise that will likely miss the playoffs for the ninth time in 10 years of existence. On top of that, attendance is lousy and there really isn’t a whole lot of interest in the team. You would have to think GM Don Waddell is running out of time to build a winner, or even a team that can go two rounds into the playoffs. Being good just isn’t good enough in a non-traditional hockey market.

What the Bruins want: Scoring, scoring and more scoring. The loss of Phil Kessel, coupled with injuries to Marc Savard and Milan Lucic for long periods of time, has crippled the Bruins this season. Also, David Krejci and Michael Ryder have not scored at the same pace they did last year, which has hurt the Bruins.

What the Bruins can give: Even though he won the Vezina Trophy last season and was rewarded with a four-year contract extension, it seems goaltender Tim Thomas is being shopped. Mark Recchi has been moved at the deadline before so if he is traded, it wouldn’t be a shock. Nor would it be surprising if veteran left winger Marco Sturm is moved.

Restricted Free Agents: Daniel Paille, Blake Wheeler, Vladimir Sobotka, Mark Stuart, Johnny Boychuk.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Mark Recchi, Steve Begin, Miroslav Satan, Shawn Thornton, Derek Morris, AndrewFerence.

No-trade Clause: Zdeno Chara, Marc Savard, Marco Sturm.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Joe Colborne, 20
Stats: GP 28 – G 16 – A 16 – P 32, Denver, NCAA
Description: An offensive power-forward.

Jordan Caron, 19
Stats: GP 34 – G 20 – A 21 – P 41, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, QMJHL
Description: A power-forward with a great touch around the net.

Zach Hamill, 21
Stats: GP 52 – G 12 – A 18 – P 30, Providence Bruins, AHL
Description: A creative two-way centerman.

Brad Marchand, 21
Stats: GP 27 – G 11 – A 17 – P 28, Providence Bruins, AHL
Description: An agitating offensive forward.

Analysis: It is unimaginable that coach Claude Julien is under heat for the team’s poor performance this season given the fact his top goal-scorer from last year was traded away and his team’s best player, Savard, missed 20 games with injuries. That said, owner Jeremy Jacobs is not a patient man. GM Peter Chiarelli isn’t likely to make a panic move, not with Toronto’s first round draft choice in his possession. That could wind up being a lottery pick.

What the Sabres want: The Sabres are a defence-first team that relies heavily on their goaltender, Ryan Miller. So it really shouldn’t surprise anyone that they don’t have a player in the league’s top 25 scorers. Adding a legitimate scorer would take some of the pressure off of Miller, whose play tailed off a tad as the Olympic break approached. Rookie Tyler Myers is the team’s leading scorer on defence so adding a veteran with an offensive upside would be nice, too.

What the Sabres can give: The Sabres have a number of solid two-way performers up front, but will be reluctant to part with them because they are decidedly affordable. They have a number of impending UFAs, but they aren’t high-profile players that will attract much attention. A team looking for toughness might be interested in Adam Mair.

Restricted Free Agents: Clarke MacArthur, Tim Kennedy, Patrick Kaleta.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Mike Grier, Adam Mair, Matt Ellis, Toni Lydman, Henrik Tallinder, Nathan Paetsch, Patrick Lalime.

No-Trade Clause: Ryan Miller.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Jhonas Enroth, 21
Stats: GP 38 – G.A.A. 2.39 – Save % .918, Portland Pirates, AHL
Description: A potential No. 1 goaltender.

Zack Kassian, 19
Stats: GP 34 – G 9 – A 19 – P 28, Windsor Spitfires, OHL
Description: A big power-forward who is simply a man among boys in junior. He is currently serving a 20-game suspension for a heavily-publicized hit from a game in January.

Tyler Ennis, 20
Stats: GP 53 – G 18 – A 35 – P 53, Portland Pirates, AHL
Description: An evasive and creative offensive forward.

Luke Adam, 19
Stats: GP 45 – G 40 – A 32 – P 72, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles, QMJHL
Description: A high-scoring power-forward who still has room to fill out.

Analysis: GM Darcy Regier tends to be conservative, probably because ownership doesn’t like to spend money. This, however, might be the year they want to dig a little deeper into their pockets to bring in some additional help. They stand a good chance of winning the Northeast Division with the players they have, but an additional player or two might insure they go deeper into the playoffs.

What the Hurricanes want: The season to end, that’s what. In typical fashion the Hurricanes followed up last season’s trip to the eastern Conference final with a rotten year. GM Jim Rutherford will take anyone who might be of service next year, as long as they aren’t so good they get his team out of the draft lottery.

What the Hurricanes can give: In one of the worst-kept secrets in hockey, the Hurricanes have asked veteran winger Ray Whitney to waive his no-trade clause. Whitney, however, is looking for a contract extension from the team that acquires him and that could be a stumbling block. With Matt Cullen having been traded to the Ottawa Senators for defenceman Alex Picard and a second round draft pick, the likes of Joe Corvo, Scott Walker and Stephane Yelle may also draw interest.

Restricted Free Agents: Jiri Tlusty, Brett Carson.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Ray Whitney, Scott Walker, Stephane Yelle, Joe Corvo, Aaron Ward, Manny Legace.

No-trade Clause: Ray Whitney, Scott Walker.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Zach Boychuk, 20
Stats: GP 44 – G 12 – A 15 – P 27, Albany River Rats, AHL
Description: A quick and agile two-way forward.

Drayson Bowman, 20
Stats: GP 38 – G 12 – A 11 – P 23, Albany River Rats, AHL
Description: A creative offensive forward with finishing skills.

Chris Terry, 20
Stats: GP 55 – G 10 – A 18 – P 28, Albany River Rats, AHL
Description: A two-way forward with leadership qualities.

Analysis: Outside of a handful of young and rising stars, Jim Rutherford will likely listen to offers for most of his current roster. Rutherford has shown a great ability to rebuild his team a year after it falls flat. Expect Walker, Whitney and Cullen to all be dealt.

What the Panthers want: What they want and what they can afford are two different things. Of course the Panthers missed a great opportunity to stock the cupboards last season when they elected to keep impending UFA Jay Bouwmeester in a failed attempt to make the playoffs rather than trade him for assets. About the only area the Panthers are sound in is between the pipes thanks to Tomas Vokoun. Stephen Weiss and Nathan Horton both took significant steps forward this year, but the Panthers still need more front-line skill up front.

What the Panthers can give: You’d have to think outside of Vokoun there are no untouchables on this team. That said, because this organization is so cash-strapped, they aren’t likely to make too many moves. There has been speculation that some teams would be interested in Horton, but it’s hard to imagine the Panthers parting with one of their only offensive weapons. Perhaps a veteran scorer like Cory Stillman, who won Cups with Tampa Bay and Carolina, is more likely.

Restricted Free Agents: Kenndal McArdle, Gregory Campbell, Kamil Kreps, Nick Tarnasky.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Dominic Moore, Dennis Seidenberg.

No-Trade Clause: Keith Ballard, Bryan McCabe, Tomas Vokoun.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Jacob Markstrom, 20
Stats: Unavailable
Description: A big, butterfly goaltender with starter’s potential.

Keaton Ellerby, 21
Stats: GP 51 – G 6 – A 13 – P 19, Rochester Americans, AHL
Description: A gritty defensive defenceman.

Drew Shore, 19
Stats: GP 30 – G 4 – A 10 – P 14, Denver, NCAA
Description: A playmaking centerman.

Shawn Matthias, 21
Stats: GP 23 – G 4 – A 7 – P 11, Rochester Americans, AHL
Description: A power-forward.

Analysis: GM Randy Sexton doesn’t have a lot of flexibility when it comes to making roster moves that add to the payroll. A team that is clearly in rebuilding mode, but also with an excellent teach as coach in Peter DeBoer, Sexton, who blew his stack following a loss Feb. 9, may elect to get younger in hopes that his group can grow into a winner over the next few years.

A few years ago it looked like the Canadiens were on the cusp of becoming a Stanley Cup contender for the next decade. They had a wealth of young, emerging talent that enjoyed success at the American League level and appeared to be primed to take the NHL by storm.

It wasn’t to be.

The Canadiens struggled last season when many of those kids decided enjoying the Montreal nightlife was more important than dedicating themselves to winning. GM Bob Gainey made numerous changes in the off-season, but the Habs have continued to struggle and are not a lock to make the playoffs. To be fair, the Canadiens have been ravaged by injury starting with their best player, defenceman Andrei Markov, on the opening night of the season.

Now Bob Gainey has resigned as GM and Pierre Gauthier, who has been a GM in Anaheim and Ottawa without significant success, is the new boss. Gauthier has to figure out who his No. 1 goalie is and how his team can improve when it is strapped with underachieving centre Scott Gomez’s huge contract.

What the Canadiens want: Injuries have crippled a team that was not exactly enjoying a smooth season and now the Canadiens are without two of their top scorers, left winger Michael Cammalleri and defenceman Marc-Andre Bergeron. New GM Pierre Gauthier needs to find some additional scoring and now that Georges Laraque is no longer part of the scene, an upgrade in toughness is also required.

What the Canadiens can give: Had Bob Gainey remained with the team, we might be talking about the Canadiens trading goaltender Jaroslav Halak and keeping Carey Price. However, there is a sense that others in the organization prefer Halak and think Price, who has shown signs of stardom, although he is inconsistent, might fetch more on the trade market. The Habs also have some youngsters, the likes of Sergei Kostitsyn, Matt D’Agostini and Max Pacioretty, that could draw interest from other teams.

Restricted Free Agents: Sergei Kostitsyn, Benoit Pouliot, Maxim Lapierre, Matt D’Agostini, Carey Price, Jaroslav Halak.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Tomas Plekanec, Glen Metropolit, Paul Mara, Marc-Andre Bergeron.

No-Trade Clause: Scott Gomez, Roman Hamrlik, Andrei Markov.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
P.K. Subban, 20
Stats: GP 52 – G 11 – A 28 – P 39, Hamilton Bulldogs, AHL
Description: A mobile, two-way defenceman.

Louis Leblanc, 19
Stats: GP 23 – G 10 – A 10 – P 20, Harvard, NCAA
Description: A two-way forward with offensive potential.

Danny Kristo, 19
Stats: GP 28 – G 9 – A 14 – P 23, North Dakota, NCAA
Description: A speedy two-way forward.

Yannick Weber, 21
Stats: GP 45 – G 2 – A 21 – P 23, Hamilton Bulldogs, AHL
Description: A two-way defenceman with a hard and heavy slapshot.

Analysis: The Habs underwent a major turnover in personnel in the summer, but it did not result in the team becoming more competitive. As a result, the Canadiens remain a work in progress. Ex-GM Bob Gainey made it his mission to not negotiate contracts with impending UFAs, or trade them for that matter, and it cost his team three valuable assets in Sheldon Souray, Mark Streit and Mike Komisarek. It will be interesting to see what Gauthier does with Plekanec, a good player who wants to be paid like a star. Expect Gauthier to be active just to put his stamp on the team.

What the Devils want: Uh, probably not too much now that GM Lou Lamoriello stole Ilya Kovalchuk from the Atlanta Thrashers. That said, Sweet Lou may opt to upgrade his blueline which, though mostly no-names, have actually played quite well this year. Losing Johnny Oduya in the Kovalchuk trade hurts a bit. Although Andy Greene has put up decent numbers, the Devils still need more of a scoring threat on defence. They might also want to consider an upgrade at the backup goalie position.

What the Devils can give: The Devils will not part with any of their top six forwards and they no longer have a wealth of young players on the cusp of breaking into the NHL, especially since they traded away Patrice Cormier, their third pick in the 2008 entry draft, as well as rookie Nicklas Bergfors.

Restricted Free Agents: David Clarkson, Rod Pelley, Mark Fraser.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Rob Niedermayer, Ilkka Pikkarainen, Dean McAmmond, Paul Martin, Mike Mottau, Patrick Davis.

No-Trade Clause: Martin Brodeur, Patrik Elias, Jamie Langenbrunner, Jay Pandolfo, Brian Rolston, Colin White.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Jacob Josefson, 18
Stats: GP 36 – G 7 – A 11 – P 18, Djurgardens, SEL
Description: A playmaking center.

Mattias Tedenby, 19
Stats: GP 37 – G 9 – A 6 – P 15, HV71 Jonkoping, SEL
Description: An offensive-minded forward.

Adam Henrique, 20
Stats: GP 45 – G 31 – A 33 – P 64, Windsor Spitfires, OHL
Description: A reliable two-way forward with shutdown capabilities. He’s the type of player that wins championships.

Jeff Frazee, 22
Stats: GP 25 – G.A.A. 2.53 – Save % .920, Lowell Devils, AHL
Description: A solid and reliable future backup.

Analysis: Lamoriello must believe his team has a legitimate shot at winning the eastern Conference to make the Kovalchuk trade knowing he likely won’t be able to re-sign the high-priced Russian in the off-season. Now he must decide if he has enough to knock off the defending champs from Pittsburgh and the mighty Washington Capitals. It is all about this season so don’t be surprised if Lamoriello adds more pieces to the puzzle.

What the Islanders want: The Islanders have some decent young skill up front, but if they are to become a legitimate playoff contender, they need more quality experience up front and on defence. While it is great to have the likes of Jon Tavares, Matt Moulson, Kyle Okposo, Josh Bailey and Robbie Schremp to build on, this group needs effective veterans to help them get over the hump. GM Garth Snow would do well to add players who have won before either at the trade deadline or in the off-season. Star defenceman Mark Streit’s production has dipped this year, perhaps an indication that he needs support.

What the Islanders can give: The Islanders hoped by signing veteran goalies Dwayne Roloson and Martin Biron, one could be moved at the deadline when Rick DiPietro got healthy. Problem is Biron’s play has been inconsistent and Roloson has another year left on his contract which is a turnoff to many teams. Depending on how much they value their young players, one might be sacrificed to bring some help on defence. Some teams may be interested in obtaining Freddy Meyer to add depth for a playoff run.

Restricted Free Agents: Sean Bergenheim, Robbie Schremp, Jeff Tambellini, Matt Moulson, nate Thompson, Andy MacDonald.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Doug Weight, Jon Sim, Richard Park, Tim Jackman, Freddy Meyer, Martin Biron.

No-Trade Clause: None.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Calvin de Haan, 18
Stats: GP 34 – G 5 – A 19 – P 24, Oshawa Generals, OHL
Description: A mobile two-way defender with superb vision. He should develop into a reliable offensive contributor.

Travis Hamonic, 19
Stats: GP 31 – G 10 – A 29 – P 39, Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL
Description: A big, physically imposing defender with a hard and heavy slapshot. Hamonic has not played for the Wheat Kings since being acquired from Moose Jaw after suffering an injury in the semi-final of the world junior hockey championship.

Matt Donovan, 19
Stats: GP 25 – G 4 – A 12 – P 16, Denver, NCAA
Description: A mobile, two-way defenceman.

Analysis: Chances are Snow will make whatever changes he can to insure that his team gets a lottery pick in hopes of acquiring another blue chip prospect. With some careful constructing in the off-season, the Islanders can indeed be a playoff threat next season. They are a young, exciting team that desperately needs some veteran leadership. With Tavares and whomever the Islanders get in the first round this year, they should be able to attract some quality veterans.

What the Rangers want: The Rangers are pretty much a one-trick, make that two-trick pony. Without Marian Gaborik and Henrik Lundqvist this team would be sunk. GM Glen Sather isn’t shy when it comes to making moves, but there are times when he could use better advisers. Sather tried to give Gaborik some scoring support by acquiring Olli Jokinen from Calgary, the big Finn really doesn’t have much of an upside when it comes to scoring these days and has only been to the playoffs once. That means the Rangers need more scoring. The defence is also quite thin in terms of players capable of shutting down the opposition. The Rangers addressed their toughness issue by picking up tough guy Jody Shelley from San Jose.

What the Rangers can give: Teams will most certainly try to pry young defender Marc Staal away from the Blueshirts. There may also be some interest in some of the Rangers depth forwards, though it’s hard to imagine they’d fetch much in return. If Sather can get anybody to take Wade Redden and his monster contract, he should be named executive of the year.

Restricted Free Agents: Enver Lisin, Erik Christensen, Dan Girardi, Marc Staal.

Unrestricted Free Agent: Vinny Prospal.

No-Trade Clause: Chris Drury, Wade Redden, Michal Rozsival.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Chris Kreider, 18
Stats: GP 24 – G 8 – A 3 – P 11, Boston College, NCAA
Description: A speedy scoring forward.

Ryan McDonagh, 20
Stats: GP 29 – G 4 – A 10 – P 14, Wisconsin, NCAA
Description: A rangy two-way defenceman.

Derek Stepan, 19
Stats: GP 27 – G 6 – A 26 – P 32, Wisconsin, NCAA
Description: A two-way forward with leadership qualities.

Bobby Sanguinetti, 21
Stats: GP 40 – G 6 – A 21 – P 27, Hartford Wolf Pack, AHL
Description: An offensive defenceman.

Analysis: Sather has a history of making lots of deals so don’t be surprised if he shuffles his roster beyond what he has already done. A team that was at one point one of the stronger in the Eastern Conference is now fighting for its playoff life. Sather loves reclamation projects although in recent years such moves have come back to bite him. The good news is he has some pretty good kids. That’s good news as long as he doesn’t trade them.

Be honest, did you really expect the Senators to be playing as well as they have this season after Dany Heatley skipped town? You’re not alone. But the reality is, coach Cory Clouston, whom Heatley simply couldn’t get along with, has done a remarkable job getting the Senators to play responsible defensive hockey even though a number of their best stars have been injured for long periods of time.

Not only that, scoring star Jason Spezza suffered through a miserable first half. But 22 games on the sideline with an injury somehow re-energized him and he’s now playing an excellent two-way game and scoring like there’s no tomorrow.

In fact the Senators have survived nicely in the absence of Daniel Alfredsson, Chris Neil and goaltender Pascal Leclaire, all of whom have missed significant stretches of games because of injury.

Forced to trade Heatley, GM Bryan Murray did a nice job getting quality in return in Milan Michalek and a second round draft pick even if he had to take underachieving Jonathan Cheechoo in the deal.

Also, youngsters Erik Karlsson and Peter Regin are beginning to emerge as solid players while veteran Mike Fisher is enjoying a career year and, touch wood, has been healthy.

Count the Senators among the NHL’s surprise teams thus far.

What the Senators want: Like so many others, the Sens could benefit from additional scoring up front. A proven forward, say a Ray Whitney, would certainly come in handy. Whitney has a no-trade clause and will only waive it to join a team that he thinks can win the Stanley Cup. With defenceman Chris Campoli, brought to town last year to provide offence, struggling, the Sens are also on the lookout for scoring from the blueline.

What the Senators can give: This is a pretty tightly-knit group and chemistry is very important with the group so Murray isn’t likely to part with any of his key players. With the emergence of Brian Elliott in net, Murray might be coaxed into trading Leclaire. If defensive-defenceman Anton Volchenkov is asking for too much to re-sign with the Senators, Murray may listen to offers.

Restricted Free Agents: Nick Foligno, Peter Regin, Jesse Winchester, Chris Campoli.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Shean Donovan, Ryan Shannon, Anton Volchenkov, Mike Brodeur.

No-Trade Clause: Daniel Alfredsson, Mike Fisher, Jason Spezza, Filip Kuba, Chris Phillips.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Jared Cowen, 19
Stats: GP 45 – G 7 – A 15 – P 22, Spokane Chiefs, WHL
Description: A stay-at-home defender with above average mobility for his size. Cowen has enjoyed a solid season after tearing his right ACL in January 2009.

Patrick Wiercioch, 19
Stats: GP 28 – G 4 – A 16 – P 20, Denver, NCAA
Description: A mobile, two-way defenceman.

Robin Lehner, 19
Stats: GP 37 – G.A.A. 2.81 – Save % .917, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, OHL
Description: A big and lanky goaltender with potential to carry a team. Some consider him the best goaltender in the OHL.

Jakob Silfverberg, 19
Stats: GP 41 – G 8 – A 4 – P 12, Brynas, SEL
Description: A speedy, two-way forward.

Analysis: If Murray is feeling any pressure for his team to succeed this year, then he may be active at the deadline. The Sens have arguably overachieved this season and sometimes that creates a false sense of potential. It might be a mistake to get too aggressive in terms of winning it all this year. Still, adding a piece or two that gets you into the second or third round would be huge.

What the Flyers want: The Flyers have an abundance of skilled players on their first two lines, but the skill level drops off dramatically beyond that. Do they really need three tough guys in Aaron Asham, Daniel Carcillo and Ian Laperriere? Ramping up the skill on the third and fourth lines would likely give the Flyers a much better chance at competing with the likes of the Capitals and Penguins, not to mention the Devils. Depending on how far they expect to go this season and assuming they make the playoffs, which is not a given at this point, they might want to consider an upgrade in goal, too. Where have you heard that before?

What the Flyers can give: The Flyers would like for someone to take Danny Briere and his massive contract off their hands, but in today’s money-for-money trade universe, that isn’t likely to happen. Trading one of Asham, Laperriere or Carcillo is a possibility and the Flyers also have an abundance of quality defencemen so they might be tempted to part with one.

Restricted Free Agents: Daniel Carcillo, Darroll Powe, Brayden Coburn, Ryan Parent, Danny Syvret.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Aaron Asham, Blair Betts, Ray Emery, Michael Leighton.

No-Trade Clause: Danny Briere, Simon Gagne, Scott Hartnell, Kimmo Timonen.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Patrick Maroon, 21
Stats: GP 41 – G 8 – A 23 – P 31, Adirondack Phantoms, AHL
Description: An agitating offensive forward.

Kevin Marshall, 20
Stats: GP 48 – G 2 – A 2 – P 4, Adirondack Phantoms, AHL
Description: A physical defensive defenceman.

Adam Morrison, 19
Stats: GP 29 – G.A.A. 3.22 – Save % .895, Saskatoon Blades, WHL
Description: Philadelphia took a flyer on Morrison who had limited junior experience prior to his draft season. He has split time in Saskatoon after many believed he could handle the starter’s role.

Analysis: The Flyers were the pre-season favorite to win the Stanley Cup, or at least make it to the final, of many experts. Things haven’t worked out thus far, however. While the possibility exists the Flyers could still get their act together, they have been too inconsistent to be considered a safe bet. GM Paul Holmgren has shown he can be very aggressive in the trade market if he feels he has holes that need to be filled. Expect Holmgren to swing a deal or two.

What the Penguins want: Funny to suggest a team with Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin might be interested in adding scoring, but that is what GM Ray Shero has done at the deadline in his two Stanley Cup final runs so why change a good thing? Outside of that, the Penguins seem to be pretty much set to take a stab at becoming the first team to win back-to-back Cups since the Detroit Red Wings in 1997 and 1998.

What the Penguins can give: The Penguins have some veteran forwards and defencemen that might appeal to other organizations, but it’s hard to picture them parting company. Still, there is a strong sentiment that you cannot stand pat when you are defending a title… you need fresh blood. The Penguins have been showcasing some of their young prospects in recent weeks. They may draw a few nibbles.

Restricted Free Agents: Kris Letang, Ben Lovejoy.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Bill Guerin, Ruslan Fedotenko, Matt Cooke, Mark Eaton, Jay McKee.

No-Trade Clause: Sergei Gonchar, Brooks Orpik.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Simon Despres, 18
Stats: GP 51 – G 8 – A 30 – P 38, Saint John Sea Dogs, QMJHL
Description: A mobile two-way defenceman. He was the first overall pick in the 2007 QMJHL draft.

Eric Tangradi, 21
Stats: GP 46 – G 11 – A 15 – P 26, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, AHL
Description: A gritty offensive forward.

Keven Veilleux, 20
Stats: GP 9 – G 2 – A 1 – P 3, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, AHL
Description: An offensive-minded power-forward.

Dustin Jeffrey, 21
Stats: GP 51 – G 16 – A 35 – P 51, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, AHL
Description: An offensive forward with leadership qualities.

Analysis: Any team with Crosby, Malkin and goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury has to be considered a threat to go deep into the playoffs. The big question is, how much does the fact the Penguins went to the final in the last two seasons affect them physically and mentally? That is why Shero may consider bringing in a player or two who is hungry to win a championship to boost the energy level of a team that might become complacent if it falls behind in a playoff series.

What the Lightning wants: With three of the league’s top scorers, offence should not be an issue. However, the Lightning is not very strong defensively and its skill level on the third and fourth lines could be improved. If GM Brian Lawton can acquire some size and skill for the third and fourth lines, and perhaps one proven defensive defenceman, the Lightning just might surprise people in the playoffs – assuming it makes the playoffs.

What the Lightning can give: Goaltender Mike Smith has not lived up to expectations in Tampa Bay and could probably be had for very little. If there’s a team out there that thinks Alex Tanguay could come to life to boost its scoring, the Lightning would make the deal in a heartbeat. Don’t count on it, though. The Lightning would gladly part with defenceman Lucas Krejicek who has an offensive upside, but has struggled when healthy.

Restricted Free Agents: Steve Downie, Paul Szczechura, Paul Ranger, Mike Lundin.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Alex Tanguay, Jeff Halpern, Stephane Villeux, Brandon Bochenski, Zenon Konopka, David Hale, Kurtis Foster, Antero Niittymaki.

No-Trade Clause: Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Carter Ashton, 18
Stats: GP 54 – G 23 – A 23 – P 46, Regina Pats, WHL
Description: He has all the tools to be a power-forward. Ashton was traded by Lethbridge to Regina, partly due to his immediate NHL potential.

Richard Panik, 19
Stats: GP 48 – G 15 – A 13 – P 28, Belleville Bulls, OHL
Description: A streaky scorer with loads of offensive potential. He will likely be ready for professional hockey next season.

Dustin Tokarski, 20
Stats: GP 33 – G.A.A. 2.57 – Save % .915, Norfolk Admirals, AHL
Description: A small but agile goaltender who has already played two games in the NHL.

Dana Tyrell, 20
Stats: GP 50 – G 3 – A 11 – P 14, Norfolk Admirals, AHL
Description: A gritty two-way forward.

Analysis: If new ownership means Lawton’s job is in jeopardy, he might want to go out swinging. It is highly unlikely he’ll get Vinny Lecavalier to waive his no-trade clause, so he may lean on Martin St. Louis. That will be a tough sell, too. The Lightning has clearly improved in the second half and has become more consistent, but it’s doubtful this team could get beyond the second round as it is.

Brian Burke made huge changes in the Maple Leafs last summer bringing Mike Komisarek, Francois Beauchemin, Colton Orr, Garnett Exelby, Wayne Primeau, Rickard Wallin and Jonas Gustavsson to the centre of the hockey universe. Then he made one of the most controversial trades in league history when he sent the Leafs next two first-round draft picks and a second rounder to the Boston Bruins for young scoring ace Phil Kessel.

A lot of moves, but the Leafs still stink.

Kessel has delivered, but Burke and the Leafs now must live with the reality that this year’s first pick given to the Bruins might end up being the No. 1 overall choice and Toronto will lose out on the opportunity to add a major asset through the draft. Regardless, he wanted Kessel and the kid has been pretty good.

So with his Leafs still spinning their wheels after all his moves, Burke engineered a blockbuster trade with Calgary and acquired Dion Phaneuf, a stud defenceman, along with goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere from the Anaheim Ducks.

Slowly but surely the Leafs are becoming a Brian Burke hockey team and finally look like a squad that will be hard to play against.

At the time of the big deals with Calgary and Anaheim, Burke declared he remains open for business. Make no doubt about it, he will continue to shift out the old and bring in more new.

What the Leafs want: Without question the Leafs need a No. 1 centre. How they will get one when they are so up against the salary cap and don’t have a No. 1 draft pick the next two years is the great mystery. The good news is they should be set on defence and in goal, so Burke will be able to concentrate on adding skill and depth at the forward position.

What the Leafs can give: Burke insists he will not ask defenceman Tomas Kaberle to waive his no-trade clause, but if the defenceman wants a say in where he’ll play next season, he might be advised to consider giving his boss a list of teams he’d like to move to. That’s because if the Leafs fail to make the playoffs, which they surely will, he can be moved in the summer. Teams looking for experience on the blueline might be interested in Exelby.

Restricted Free Agents: Nikolai Kulemin, John Mitchell, Jonas Gustavsson.

Unrestricted Free Agents: Lee Stempniak, Wayne Primeau, Mike Van Ryn, Garnet Exelby.

No-Trade Clause: Tomas Kaberle.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
Nazem Kadri, 19
Stats: GP 46 – G 27 – A 50 – 77 P, London Knights, OHL
Description: A playmaking forward with good mobility and quickness. He almost made the Maple Leafs out of training camp.

Philippe Paradis, 19
Stats: GP 55 – G 21 – A 18 – P 39, Shawinigan Cataractes, QMJHL
Description: A big forward in the mold of a power-forward. He’s not a natural scorer, but exhibits a strong work ethic.

Chris DiDomenico, 20
Stats: Has not played.
Description: An offensive forward with great instincts. He has yet to play this season after suffering a broken leg in last year’s league championship series.

Mikhail Stefanovich, 20
Stats: GP 43 – G 20 – A 36 – P 56, Quebec Remparts, QMJHL
Description: A creative offensive forward that has bouts of inconsistency.

Analysis: This has been a huge year of transition in Toronto, and the natives are becoming restless. Burke probably could have rested after his big free agent signings last summer, but the trade to get Kessel is an indication he wants to win sooner rather than later. He paid a huge price and Leaf fans will no doubt cringe if the Boston Bruins get the first overall pick and select Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin, two hot prospects. Nevertheless, Burke will continue to shape his club in his image – tough and ornery. The pressure to be a playoff team will be huge next season and if the team falters, both Burke and coach Ron Wilson could be in trouble.

What the Capitals want: This is a team that doesn’t appear to have a noticeable weakness, though some would suggest goaltending could be an issue in the post-season. To be fair, the Capitals have been amongst the NHL best defensive teams this season, yet people still cringe at the thought of Jose Theodore carrying this team through four rounds. If the Caps believe they are a true Stanley Cup contender, adding a bona fide Top Four defenceman might push them over the top.

What the Capitals could give up: They probably don’t want to mess too much with team chemistry, but the Caps do have a lot of scoring depth they could part with if they feel there are deficiencies in other areas. The Caps may not have the best individual goalie in the league, but they do have depth with Simeon Varlamov and Michael Neuvirth. One of those players may be expendable.

Restricted Free Agents: Nicklas Backstrom, Eric Fehr, Boyd Gordon, Tomas Fleischmann, Jeff Schultz.

Unrestricted Free agents: Brendan Morrison, Quintin Laing, Brian Pothier, Shaone Morrisonn, Jose Theodore.

Prospects: (Stats provided are as of Feb. 16)
John Carlson, 20
Stats: GP 40 – G 4 – A 29 – P 33, Hershey Bears, AHL
Description: An offensive-minded defenceman. He scored the game-winning goal in the gold medal game at the world junior hockey championships.

Karl Alzner, 21
Stats: GP 31 – G 1 – A 6 – P 7, Hershey Bears, AHL
Description: A physical, two-way defenceman.

Michal Neuvirth, 21
Stats: GP 16 – G.A.A. 1.92 – Save % .932, Hershey Bears, AHL
Description: A potential starter who has split the season in the NHL and the AHL.

Marcus Johansson, 19
Stats: GP 35 – G 8 – A 8 – P 16, Farjestads, SEL
Description: An offensive forward.

Analysis: The Capitals are one of the NHL’s fastest and most exciting teams. Alex Ovechkin appears poised to do everything in his power to get the Capitals into the final this year after last season’s heartbreaking Game 7 loss to Pittsburgh in the second round. Anything short of a trip to the conference final will be considered an unadulterated failure.