Rumor: Ducks could trade a D for high draft pick

It’s no secret that the Anaheim Ducks will have some tough decisions to make this offseason with regards to the future of their defense corps. With only two spots to protect four promising young defenders, it’s likely that the Ducks will be forced to move one, maybe even two, of their players to a competitor. 

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reports that he sees a fit between the Ducks and Dallas Stars. The Stars, you may remember, currently hold the 3rd overall pick in this summer’s NHL Entry Draft, but general Jim Nil has expressed interest in moving the pick if he can acquire a top flight NHL defenseman in return. Of course, the Ducks have the assets to make it happen, but one has to wonder if the position that they’re in, with regards to the NHL Expansion Draft, will diminish their trade leverage. After all, if the Ducks stand to lose a player like Josh Manson or Sami Vatanen for nothing to the Vegas Golden Knights, why would the Stars pay such a hefty price? 

Regardless, it’s a compelling arrangement and Friedman speculates that the Ducks will have to make a decision either way in short order.