After seeing how well the Philadelphia Flyers have fared since trading their two biggest names in the offseason, it appears as if Anaheim Ducks general manager Bob Murray could be contemplating blowing up the core of his roster as well.
Murray told Helene Elliott of the Los Angeles Times that the only untouchables in his roster at this point are Koivu and Selanne because each of them has no trade clauses in their contracts.
“I still believe we have some core players. Now, whether we have to change a few players, so be it. They’re deciding who’s staying and who’s not staying at this point.” Murray told Elliott.
This means that players such as Corey Perry, Ryan Getzlaf and Bobby Ryan could all potentially be in play come trade deadline time.
However, it appears as if Getzlaf and Ryan have more to worry about. Both players are having down seasons as Getzlaf is on pace to put up some of the worst stats of his career. Similarly, Ryan’s 13 goals and 21 points could result in his lowest points totals ever. Both players would be highly coveted by other teams and could yield a significant return.
The Ducks currently sit 14th in the Western Conference, 19 points out of a playoff spot. With stiff competition in the West, the team is unlikely to regain a playoff spot and could opt to start selling assets in hopes of building a contender for next season.
Murray made it clear, however, that he is looking for core-type players in return and won’t deal for draft picks and prospects. The team isn’t going into rebuilding mode, but they are looking to improve.
Ryan was the subject of major trade rumors earlier in the season, but those trade rumord quieted just as quickly as they started. He could find himself the center of attention again when the trade deadlines begins to creep up. Washington could make an offer, possibly for Semin straight up. The Islanders may look to get in on Ryan as well as they have several solid young forwards to offer. And don’t be surprised of Colorado pops up as a contender for Ryan as well. The Avs are on the cusp of a playoff spot and could offer up Paul Stastny in return.
Getzlaf could also garner some significant attention as well. Getzlaf is a big bodied, gritty forward capable of producing 70+ points a season. Nashville could make a pass at Getzlaf, possibly including Weber in the deal in some capacity, and Toronto could get in the mix as well, perhaps offering Nazem Kadri as part of the deal.
