Pierre Lebrun Drops A Bombshell Regarding A Juuse Saros Trade
Photo credit: The Hockey News
According to insider Pierre Lebrun, it sounds like all-star goaltender Juuse Saros is likely heading to a new destination in the near future.
Insider Lebrun Drops Major News Regarding Juuse Saros And The Predators
Picture a scenario where Juuse Saros becomes available before the NHL's March 8 trade deadline. It's important to note that the Nashville Predators haven't actively put Saros on the trade market. With another year left on his $5 million deal, the Predators intend to explore extending his contract this summer. However, given the increased demand for goaltending help across the league, Preds GM Barry Trotz may entertain serious offers for the 28-year-old netminder.
Trotz expressed his desire to re-sign Saros during the November GM meetings, indicating that they see him as a crucial part of the team's future. While that remains the likely path forward for Nashville, the evolving market dynamics may influence their decision-making. If a team presents a compelling offer for Saros, the Preds are willing to listen, though it doesn't guarantee a trade will occur.
LeBrun on Saros (Insider Trading): "What has changed since the start of the year is the number of teams that are desperate to upgrade their goaltending, and I'm told because of that the Predators feel they have no choice but to listen if a team puts in a serious, serious offer. What I mean by that is don't throw a couple of 1st RD picks which would be in the low 20's at the Preds, that's not going to get Trotz to blink. Let's take LA as an example, if they threw in a name like Byfield as part of a package, that would get the attention of NSH"
Saros has had a slightly off year, but he would undoubtedly be a top choice for any contender seeking a substantial upgrade in goal. Acquiring him for at least two playoff runs would be an attractive prospect. The key for the Predators is to receive more than just draft picks in return. A low first-round pick from a contender may not be sufficient. To engage in serious trade discussions, Nashville would likely require a young, front-line NHL player as part of the package.
It's crucial to consider the Predators confidence in 2020 first-round pick Yaroslav Askarov, who has shown promise with a .926 save percentage in the AHL this season. If Saros is extended this summer, Askarov might eventually be the one on the move. While a trade before March 8 seems unlikely, the changing landscape makes it no longer an impossibility compared to three months ago.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 19 | 218 ANSWERS Pierre Lebrun Drops A Bombshell Regarding A Juuse Saros Trade Who do you think should trade for Juuse Saros? | ||
| Toronto | 90 | 41.3 % |
| Edmonton | 46 | 21.1 % |
| New Jersey | 38 | 17.4 % |
| Other | 44 | 20.2 % |
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