Seattle Kraken forward Yanni Gourde and fellow teammate Oliver Bjorkstrand are at the center of trade discussions with the Tampa Bay Lightning. The potential trade hinges on a $3.5 million salary cap gap, leaving Seattle or a third party responsible for covering part of the salary. Meanwhile, the Utah Hockey Club is actively seeking to upgrade their roster, possibly offloading Matias Maccelli. The St. Louis Blues are likely to keep their roster intact, as Brayden Schenn prefers to stay, though he has intrigued other teams. Lastly, the Columbus Blue Jackets are exploring options for a middle-six forward but are hesitant to offer long-term contracts as they negotiate with Ivan Provorov.

Columbus Blue Jackets are shifting their strategy ahead of the trade deadline, contemplating the addition of a forward to strengthen their playoff push. After a streak of victories, the team has positioned itself favorably in the Eastern Conference, leaving behind initial plans to be sellers. Key players like Boone Jenner are set to return, providing a significant boost without incurring additional costs. Columbus has ample cap space, enabling them to seek a forward who can seamlessly integrate into the existing roster dynamics.

With management focusing on character fit as much as skill, the search is not just for talent but also for someone who can enhance team camaraderie. The potential extension for Mathieu Olivier hints at the organization’s intention to retain crucial pieces. In contrast, Ivan Provorov's uncertain future suggests he may be held onto as a rental unless an irresistible offer comes through. Columbus' recent performance reflects their evolving identity as they pursue the playoffs.

Mathieu Olivier has secured a six-year contract worth $18 million with the Columbus Blue Jackets, providing them with a solid presence both on and off the ice. The 28-year-old forward, who has been a vital contributor with 21 points in 61 games this season, emphasizes the Blue Jackets' strategy of retaining key players. General manager Don Waddell expressed delight at Olivier's commitment, underlining the significance of his leadership and work ethic to the team's success.

Since being signed as an undrafted free agent by the Nashville Predators in 2019, Olivier has made a notable impact, accumulating 55 points in 229 regular-season games. Traded to the Blue Jackets last year, he has quickly established himself as a key player. With the trade deadline approaching, the Blue Jackets are currently positioned for a playoff spot, holding the first wild card in the Eastern Conference.

The Edmonton Oilers bolstered their forward lineup by trading defenseman Max Wanner and draft picks to the Boston Bruins for Trent Frederic, Max Jones, and rights to Petr Hauser. Jones has shown potential in the AHL with 13 goals and 8 assists in 38 games this season, adding some NHL experience with 7 games played for the Bruins. His career stats reflect a solid performance with 62 points across 265 NHL games. Wanner, meanwhile, had modest contributions in his second AHL season. This trade may signify the Oilers' aim to enhance their offensive depth and create a more balanced roster as they focus on playoff contention.

Trade rumors swirl around Brock Boeser as the Vancouver Canucks appear open to parting with the forward amid stalled contract discussions. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Wild are expected to make trades while adhering to a strict 'penny in and penny out' strategy, with Joel Eriksson Ek and Kirill Kaprizov anticipated to return before season's end.

The Columbus Blue Jackets are holding firm on their roster, despite interest in defenseman Ivan Provorov, and are not considering trades for veteran players. In contrast, the St. Louis Blues are not budging on their asking price for Brayden Schenn, indicating their commitment to retaining their assets as they navigate the playoff race.