In past editions of the Trade Market, we’ve taken a look at potential destinations for Sam Gagner and Chris Tanev and assessed the possibility of picking up an additional first round pick. This time around, we’re doing the inevitable and putting Alex Edler’s market value under the microscope for Trade Market: Aging Franchise Icon Edition.

To qualify for this Trade Market, a team must be in some sort of Stanley Cup contention this season, as Edler is approaching unrestricted free agency and is thus a “rental” player for this year and this year only. A team must also have a clear need for an additional top-four defender on the left side. As any Edler deal would undoubtedly come at the Trade Deadline, cap space is not a major concern.

Of course, it bears mentioning that Edler has a No-Trade Clause in his contract, and won’t be moving at all unless he allows it. For the purposes of this exercise, let’s assume he’s willing.

In this edition of the Trade Market, we’re responding to reader feedback by including some content about the possible return one might expect from an Edler trade. Past trades for players of Edler’s ilk—minute-munching two-way top-four defensemen—at the Trade Deadline would suggest that his value is somewhere around a first round pick and/or a non-bluechip prospect or two. With that in mind, we’ve included some notes on intriguing prospects for each prospective buyer, as well as whether or not they still hold a first.

 

Stanley Cup Contender?: On the heels of John Tavares’ shocking departure, the Islanders sit a surprising third in the Metropolitan Division. In a weakened Eastern Conference, the Islanders have a real chance to make the playoffs—and a solid run might be just what they need to get over Tavares. But they’ll need some help if they’re going to do it.

First Round Pick?: Still owned by the Islanders.

Intriguing Prospects: Sebastian Aho (D, 22), Devon Toews (D, 24), Bode Wilde (D, 18), Mitch Vande Sompel (D, 21)

Why Them?: The Islanders have a clear need for an upgrade on their left side, where Edler would challenge Nick Leddy for the top-pairing position. The Islanders may be a longshot for a lengthy playoff run, but the Metropolitan is wide open and they’re currently performing well. GM Lou Lamoriello is on his last legs as an NHL GM, so he may want to win sooner rather than later. They have a bounty of defensive prospects to offer in return.

Stanley Cup Contender?: As has been talked about ad nauseum this season, the Senators foolishly traded their 2019 first round pick to the Colorado Avalanche in the Matt Duchene deal. That means that the lowly Sens have no reason to tank, and need to make as much of a run at the playoffs as possible. They’re currently holding down a wildcard spot in the East. 

First Round Pick?: Laughably, no. See above.

Intriguing Prospects: Christian Wolanin (D, 23), Christian Jaros (D, 22), Markus Nurmi (RW, 20)

Why Them?: The Sens are in a tricky spot this season, and they have no reason not to make their best possible run at the playoffs. Their defense has been decimated by departures, and is in desperate need of some additional talent. Edler would instantly become their best defenseman—but there remains the question of whether or not there’s enough left in Ottawa’s prospect cupboards to pay for him.

Stanley Cup Contender?: After a shaky start, the Penguins are finally starting to hit their stride. Even if they weren’t, if you’ve got Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin on your roster, you’re In contention mode by default.

First Round Pick?: Still owned by the Penguins.

Intriguing Prospects: Filip Hallander (RW, 18), Justin Almeida (C, 19), Sam Miletic (LW, 21)

Why Them?: The Penguins have been linked to Edler in several trade rumors, so they’re plainly interested. Defense always seems to be a trouble spot for Pittsburgh, and the addition of Jack Johnson has been a case of subtraction by addition. Edler would stabilize their left side, and would pair quite nicely with either Kris Letang or Justin Schultz.

Stanley Cup Contender?: The Sharks look like one of the strongest contenders in the Western Conference this season, and their trade for Erik Karlsson made it apparent that they were all-in for 2019. With Joes Thornton and Pavelski aging and approaching free agency, this might be San Jose’s last best chance at the Cup.

First Round Pick?: Still owned by the Sharks—but not for long. As soon as they make the playoffs, the pick goes to Buffalo as part of the Evander Kane trade. If they somehow miss the playoffs, their pick goes to Ottawa as part of the Erik Karlsson trade.

Intriguing Prospects: Mario Ferraro (D, 20), Maxim Letunov (LW, 22), Sasha Chmelevski (C, 19)

Why Them?: The Sharks already have the best defense corps in the league, but it’s still not perfect. With Marc-Edouard Vlasic, Brent Burns, and Erik Karlsson already on board, the addition of Edler would give San Jose one of the best top-fours imaginable—and that could make up for the potential loss of production from their aging forwards.

Stanley Cup Contender?: The Jets will battle with the Nashville Predators for the Central Division crown all season, but there’s no mistaking that Winnipeg is a genuine Cup contender. With several tough contract divisions pending, the Jets have an added incentive to go for it this season.

First Round Pick?: Still owned by the Jets. 

Intriguing Prospects: Mason Appleton (RW, 22), Logan Stanley (D, 20), Dylan Samberg (D, 19), Brendan Lemieux (LW, 22), Luke Green (D, 20)

Why Them?: The Jets are firmly in contention, but the coming years may be difficult for them in regard to budget decisions. The right side of their defense is among the best in hockey, but their left side leaves a lot to be desired. Edler would solidify their top-four and might even be excited to return to the city where his pro career began.