As the 2024 NHL trade deadline approaches in just three days, the rumor mill is buzzing with speculation and potential moves. Let's take a closer look at some of the prominent names and rumors swirling around the league and determine whether they hold any truth.

One enticing possibility being discussed is the potential trade involving defenseman Noah Hanifin of the Calgary Flames. Having already dealt two rental players, the Flames are now considering offers for Hanifin. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman revealed in his 32 Thoughts podcast that Hanifin and the Flames are primarily focusing on teams where he would be interested in re-signing, with the Tampa Bay Lightning emerging as a top contender. It's highly likely that Hanifin's partial no-trade clause will give him a say in the matter. The Lightning, who are in dire need of defensive reinforcement following a recent injury to Mikhail Sergachev, seem like a perfect fit for the two-way defenseman. Although the Lightning might need to find enough assets to satisfy Calgary's asking price, the acquisition of Hanifin could significantly bolster their championship aspirations.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers, who have been performing exceptionally well this season, are actively seeking to enhance their roster and make a strong push for the Stanley Cup. One name linked to them is St. Louis Blues winger Pavel Buchnevich. With impressive point-per-game production since joining the Blues, Buchnevich's services would undoubtedly attract several contenders. The Oilers have reportedly been monitoring Buchnevich to potentially pair him with Leon Draisaitl. However, it seems unlikely that the Oilers will prioritize acquiring a prominent winger over pressing needs in defense and goaltending depth.

The New Jersey Devils, who had high expectations entering this season, find themselves facing a challenging situation as they struggle to stay in the playoff race. One player prominently mentioned in trade talks is forward Tyler Toffoli, whom the Devils acquired from the Calgary Flames earlier in the year. Despite Toffoli's impressive performance, tallying 26 goals and 44 points in 60 games, the Devils appear inclined to capitalize on his heightened trade value and recoup significant assets for the future.

In the case of the Vegas Golden Knights, the defending Stanley Cup champions are once again looking to make a splashy move and acquire a top winger or potentially multiple wingers. With a glaring need for offensive reinforcements, particularly in the absence of injured star Mark Stone, the Golden Knights have ample salary-cap flexibility and a cache of future draft picks at their disposal. It seems likely that the Golden Knights will successfully land a high-impact winger before the deadline.

Lastly, rumors suggest that the Boston Bruins are considering listening to trade offers for goaltender Linus Ullmark. While Ullmark's potential departure would free up salary-cap space and provide the Bruins with an opportunity to address other areas of need, including defense, it remains unclear if the Bruins will move forward with any trade before the deadline. Given the strength of their goaltending duo with Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman, the Bruins might hesitate to part ways with Ullmark at this crucial juncture.

As the trade deadline rapidly approaches, these rumors and speculations will soon transform into concrete deals or faded possibilities. Fans and analysts eagerly await the official announcements as teams make their final moves to bolster their lineups for an intense playoff race.

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