The NHL trade deadline is quickly approaching, and teams are sorting out their plans for how best to attack their roster needs. Among the squads looking to buff up their defenses are the Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers. According to the latest NHL rumors from Frank Seravalli, both teams could be in the market for Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov.
Both the Oilers and Maple Leafs are looking to upgrade their depth at defense, and Gavrikov figures to be available at the deadline as one of the most sought-after defenders in the league. While the Coyotes could part ways with Shayne Gostisbehere and Jakob Chychrun, the Leafs and Oilers could prefer to seek out a more defensive-minded defender, of which Gavrikov fits the bill.
His physical nature of play could be exactly what the two teams are trying to improve upon at the trade deadline, and with the Blue Jackets at the bottom of the standings, a trade seems like the most likely outcome for the 27-year-old.
Seravalli indicates the Penguins and Golden Knights could potentially rival the Oilers and Maple Leafs in their pursuit for a Gavrikov trade at the deadline, though it remains to be seen what team is willing to present the best package of assets.
This season, Vladislav Gavrikov has recorded 10 points in 46 games, skating an average of 22:16 on the ice per game. He was a sixth-round pick by the Blue Jackets in the 2015 NHL Draft, making his debut in 2019. Last year, he recorded a career-high 33 points while featuring in 80 games as a key player for Columbus, but it looks as if his days with the organization may well be numbered.
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