The Ottawa Senators are gearing up for the NHL trade deadline with a focus on their internal roster rather than significant external moves. General Manager Steve Staios is keen on developing young talent amidst a tight salary cap situation, limiting their ability to make major additions. The team is eyeing the potential acquisition of a gritty forward, with Brandon Tanev of the Seattle Kraken being a candidate. However, trading their first-round pick appears unlikely, considering past commitments and future draft capital.

Regarding Claude Giroux, discussions about extending his contract have yet to take place, but both parties seem inclined to keep him, viewing him as a vital part of the team's future. With the Senators desperate for playoff success, their strategy appears to involve leveraging their current assets while fostering talent from within.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Nashville Predators are receiving inquiries about Ryan O'Reilly, who has two years left on his contract at an average annual value of $4.5 million. Despite his lack of no-trade protection, the Predators are handling trade talks cautiously, indicating a preference for significant returns. O'Reilly's trade value remains high, and the franchise is open to offers but not actively shopping him.

Other potential trade candidates from the Predators include Luke Schenn, Michael McCarron, and Colton Sissons. Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken are expected to be active sellers, with Brandon Tanev and Jamie Oleksiak among those likely to be moved. Tanev's interest has spiked among playoff contenders, and the Kraken may retain some salary to facilitate trades. The Vegas Golden Knights could pursue affordable depth options like Tanev or Ryan Donato.

In New York, the Rangers have been busy, trading key players and may now be looking to move Reilly Smith, who has recently been scratched for roster management. The Tampa Bay Lightning, known for deadline deals, might also be in the market for a depth forward to bolster their top six as they sit with over $6 million in projected cap space.

Nick Robertson is navigating a pivotal moment in his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs. After requesting a trade last year, he has shifted his focus to wanting to stay with the team, especially after being given more playing time. Coach Craig Berube has encouraged him to adopt a grittier style of play, which Robertson has embraced. However, as the trade deadline approaches, his status as a pending RFA with arbitration rights keeps him in the rumor mill, making him a player to watch closely.

In the larger NHL landscape, various players are emerging as potential trade targets as teams look to bolster their rosters. Notable names on this list include Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders and Scott Laughton of the Philadelphia Flyers, both of whom could dramatically impact their respective teams’ playoff aspirations. Other players like Brandon Tanev and Jake Evans are also drawing attention, which could shift the dynamics in several divisions.

The Seattle Kraken are poised for significant changes ahead of the March 7 trade deadline, with several players potentially on the move. Defenseman Jamie Oleksiak and forward Oliver Bjorkstrand are at the forefront of trade chatter, with the Kraken reportedly considering offers for their assets. Brandon Tanev, who has a $3.5 million cap hit and is a pending unrestricted free agent, is widely expected to be traded, along with Jared McCann, who has a no-trade list in place. There’s also speculation surrounding Yanni Gourde, indicating the Kraken could be very active in the market.

With injuries affecting their roster and the team looking to build for the future, Seattle's front office is entertaining offers for various players. The sense around the league suggests that both McCann and Tanev are the most likely candidates to be moved, reflecting a strategic shift as the Kraken aim to enhance their roster.