As the NHL trade deadline approaches, teams are actively exploring options to bolster their rosters for the playoff push. Several players have emerged as potential targets, with intriguing scenarios taking shape in the final days leading up to Friday's deadline.

One player grabbing attention is Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun. TSN's Darren Dreger reported that teams are showing increasing interest in the 25-year-old blueliner, who is signed through next season. The allure for playoff contenders lies in acquiring Chychrun and getting two playoff runs with him. However, the Calgary Flames' Noah Hanifin, who is having a standout season, remains another tempting rental option for teams seeking defensive help.

While the Ottawa Senators, who hold Chychrun's rights, are yet to establish a specific asking price, they are actively listening to offers. The situation remains fluid, and the potential availability of Hanifin from Calgary adds another layer of complexity to the discussions. The Senators may opt to wait until the offseason to make a decision.

In Anaheim, forward Frank Vatrano has drawn interest from multiple teams. The Ducks, currently in the midst of a rebuild, are open to moving the 26-year-old, who is signed through next season at an affordable $3.65 million average annual value. A reunion with his former team, the New York Rangers, is seen as a logical fit, while the Carolina Hurricanes, who are looking to upgrade upfront without breaking the bank on rentals, are also keeping an eye on the situation.

Calgary Flames goaltender Jacob Markstrom remains a topic of discussion among teams, including the New Jersey Devils. The Devils, motivated to address their longstanding goaltending issues, have expressed interest in Markstrom, who is locked in with the Flames until 2025-26. While the Flames are hesitant to move their star netminder and risk disrupting team chemistry, the Devils' urgency may spur a potential trade before the deadline. Markstrom possesses a full no-move clause, but he may be willing to waive it for a move to New Jersey.

Over in Boston, the Bruins are contemplating the possibility of trading last year's Vezina Trophy winner, Linus Ullmark, in order to gain salary cap flexibility. However, in-season goalie trades are uncommon, making a deal for Ullmark challenging to navigate. The New Jersey Devils, who have prioritized their goaltending situation, have also considered Ullmark as an option if their pursuit of Markstrom falls through.

Meanwhile, Montreal Canadiens goaltender Jake Allen remains in a state of status quo heading into the deadline. With limited demand for goaltending reinforcements around the league, several teams have indicated interest in discussing a trade with Allen during the offseason when he has one year left on his contract.

Lastly, San Jose Sharks center Mikael Granlund has attracted attention due to his resurgent season. Though his $5 million annual average value may deter some contenders, given the thin center market, Granlund remains a potential under-the-radar pickup. The Sharks have expressed willingness to explore creative trade options, considering their salary retention limitations.

As the deadline draws nearer, trade talks are expected to intensify, and teams will need to weigh their options carefully. The next few days could see multiple deals materialize, ultimately shaping the playoff landscape for teams vying for postseason success.

Stay tuned for further updates as the NHL trade deadline approaches.

[Note: The content of this article is a generated summary based on the provided information and does not include additional outside sources or original reporting.]