Rumor: As many as 8 teams in the mix for Tavares

According to a report from hockey blogger and Boston Bruins insider Jimmy Murphy, there could be as many as 8 interested parties if superstar John Tavares were to hit the trade or free-agent market.

In the final year of his contract, the future of Tavares with the New York Islanders has been the subject of much debate for months now. Like Steven Stamkos two years ago, expect the speculation about Tavares’ future to follow him the entire season until he either re-ups with the Isles or is traded before the NHL trade deadline.

So, where could Tavares be headed? The front runners according to Murphy are, (in no particular order):

• Montreal Canadiens
  
• Detroit Red Wings
  
• Tampa Bay Lightning
  
• Calgary Flames
  
• Toronto Maple Leafs
  
• Philadelphia Flyers
  
• New York Rangers
  
• New Jersey Devils

All interesting destinations, but for very different reasons. Having a superstar like Tavares join a contender like the Habs, Lightning, Rangers, Leafs or Flames could put a team over the top. The Flyers, Devils and Red Wings are seem to be on the way up though and Tavares could certainly provide a kick start to any team’s offense. 

What do you think? Where’s the best fit for Tavares?