The NHL trade deadline this season is a perfect storm of conditions for maximum drama: aggressive Stanley Cup favorites, over two-thirds of the league in playoff contention and clarity over the salary cap's continued rise over the next three seasons.
The fireworks began before the 4 Nations Face-Off break. They've only grown more frequent as names come off the board.
Here's a look at the players who could be move before the NHL trade deadline today at 3 p.m. ET.
We begin with the top 15 most fascinating players at the deadline, followed by several categories ranging from shocking possibilities to the pending free agents to the bargain beauties who could be the difference in winning the Stanley Cup.
This list was compiled through conversations with league executives and other sources, as well as media reports. ESPN insiders Kevin Weekes and Emily Kaplan added their input in its creation. Salary figures are from PuckPedia.
Let's begin with the biggest names.
