1 trade every NHL team should make

Calgary Flames

The best thing the Calgary Flames could do is trade upcoming free agent defenseman Dennis Wideman. It’s hard to find a fit for him because of his declining skillset. However, it only takes one NHL team to want him in order for a trade to happen. Also, the Flames are merely a huge injury away from a team being willing to give a decent package to get Wideman.

One team that could make sense is the Tampa Bay Lightning. They have been looking to add a top four defenseman. There are very few available, especially in the rental market. However, Wideman could pass off as one. Normally, the Lightning wouldn’t have the cap space, but thanks to the injury to Steven Stamkos, they have a lot of it.

Wideman is declining, but he still averages over 20 minutes a night. He has 27 points in his last 78 games as of Dec. 20. So Wideman still has some value left. Maybe the Dallas Stars would express interest, since their blue line needs help. The Florida Panthers have noted they want to make their blue line harder to play against. Wideman could help. There are a number of potential suitors for the veteran defenseman, but it’s hard to find a team desperate enough to give much for him.