As the NHL trade deadline draws closer, the rumor mill around the league continues to heat up. With just one day left before the March 6Â cutoff, teams are rushing to finalize their strategies, with some clearly buying while others prepare to sell for the future.
Now, two Original NHL Six teams, the Montreal Canadiens and the Boston Bruins, have reportedly joined the growing list of clubs interested in a veteran $45.5 million defenseman.
$45.5 Million NHL Defenseman Drawing Trade Interest
The player attracting attention is Justin Faulk of the St. Louis Blues. The right-shot blueliner is currently in the sixth season of his seven-year, $45.5 million contract. He carries a modified 15-team no-trade clause.
Faulk has been productive this season. Recording 11 goals and 21 assists in 61 games. Beyond the points, his ability to play heavy minutes, averaging around 22:29 per night, and his right-shot presence on defense make him a valuable option for teams looking to strengthen their blue line.
With the Blues currently at the bottom of the Central Division, speculation has grown that the team could be open to trading key veterans before the deadline.
According to NHL insider James Murphy, several teams have already checked in on Faulk’s availability. In addition to Montreal and Boston, the Ottawa Senators, Buffalo Sabres, and Detroit Red Wings are also believed to be among the clubs exploring a potential deal.
Murphy noted that Boston, in particular, has been actively searching for a top-four right-shot defenseman along with a top-six forward. Bruins GM Don Sweeney has reportedly been aggressive in that pursuit.
“As I’ve told you throughout the season and more so since the New Year, when they ramped up their pursuit of Rasmus Andersson, Sweeney really wants to bring in that top-four defenceman on the right side. He’s still in on Justin Faulk.” Murphy said.
Montreal has also been identified as a potential suitor as the Canadiens look to address their need for a reliable right-shot defenseman. However, cap space could complicate things. The Canadiens have roughly $1.5 million in available space, meaning a deal might require salary retention from St. Louis or the movement of a larger contract, potentially one belonging to Patrik Laine.
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Reports suggest the Blues would be seeking a significant return for Faulk. Potentially comparable to what teams have discussed for Andersson, a package that could include a first-round pick and a high-end prospect.
With several teams circling and the deadline fast approaching, the competition for Faulk could intensify quickly.
For now, the Bruins will face the Nashville Predators on Thursday, while the Canadiens are set to take on the Anaheim Ducks on Friday as the league waits to see whether a deal materializes.
