Kevin’s Morning Hash: How Keith Trade Helps Oilers, Guentzel Rumor and a Learned Goalie

In non-Covid times, we would be monitoring general managers overpaying for unrestricted free agents. Since you probably miss the usual holiday action, today’s morning hash will include trade talk.

One hot topic is the probable trade of Duncan Keith from the Blackhawks. The Edmonton Journal has a story pointing out Keith’s possible value as a mentor to young players.  Perhaps he can help them learn how to win.

Speculation has Caleb Jones possibly moving to the Blackhawks in the deal. The real lure of moving Keith for the Blackhawks is the removal of his $5.58 million cap hit for the next two seasons.

Rumor of the Day

Jake Guentzel’s name has been in the rumor mill, mostly because the Penguins need to clear some cap space in order to make some changes. the Penguins would like to get a little bigger and stronger.  Could the Penguins trade Guentzel?

Rumor II:  Kings are also looking at adding a premium defenseman. They are a possibility in the Seth Jones Sweepstakes, although Philadelphia could be emerging as a favorite. We are still hearing Colorado as well.

Around the NHL

Washington:  Hockey Now writer Sammi Silber paints a picture of Phoenix Copley as a goalie and a scholar.

San Jose: Why Matthew Coronato’s stock is rising in the run-up to the NHL

NY Islanders: How can Lou Lamoriello keep this Islanders team together.