NHL trade rumors: Top 3 teams to watch as trade deadline approaches

2. Nashville Predators

Much like the Flyers, the Nashville Predators are still figuring out if they’re going to be sellers or buyers. Until recently, they were trending towards the former but with the recent decline of the Chicago Blackhawks, who have won just three of their last 10 games entering March 24, the Predators could re-insert themselves in the playoff race.

But with the Columbus Blue Jackets also in the race and starting to figure things out, it might be too little, too late for the Predators. If this is the case, the Preds have a number of attractive deadline options.

As far as rentals go, the Predators have forward Mikael Granlund, who has drawn interest from the Toronto Maple Leafs. They also have fellow Finnish forward Erik Haula, who would add some depth to any contender’s lineup at a fairly cheap price. Things could get extremely interesting if long-time starting goalie Pekka Rinne decides to waive his no-movement clause, but for the time being, he doesn’t seem interested in leaving.

Defenseman Mattias Ekholm has two years remaining on his contract and with a $3.75 million cap hit, he’s a bargain. He has been linked to various teams, which isn’t surprising. But what is surprising is Ryan Ellis might be the guy who gets traded, according to Elliotte Friedman.

"Biggest question Poile must answer: Mattias Ekholm or Ryan Ellis? Initially, the latter was off limits, but something’s made the Predators think."

It would take quite a haul to pry Ellis loose, but he’s good enough to warrant that haul. There’s also Filip Forsberg, but much like Ryan Ellis, the Predators are likely going to ask for the sun, the moon, and the stars as a return and accept nothing less.