As the NHL trade deadline and Olympic roster freeze approach on February 4th, several teams and players find themselves at the center of trade rumors. Here's a breakdown of the latest buzz:

Panarin to Winnipeg?

The Winnipeg Jets are reportedly exploring a trade for Artemi Panarin. The New York Rangers may be looking to move the star winger, and the Jets could be a potential landing spot. To acquire Panarin, the Jets would likely need to offer a significant package, potentially including defenseman Logan Stanley, picks, and prospects.

However, several factors could complicate a potential deal. Panarin, who is 34 years old, is seeking a contract extension, likely in the range of $10 million per season for four or five years. Some teams interested in Panarin may be hesitant to commit to a long-term deal at that price. It has also been reported that Panarin's agent has said that Panarin will not take a short-term deal or a hometown discount. Besides the Jets, the San Jose Sharks have reportedly inquired about Panarin and he is willing to sign an extension with them. Other teams that have shown interest are the Washington Capitals, Carolina Hurricanes and the LA Kings.

Acquiring Panarin would provide the Jets with an elite offensive talent they've been lacking. However, the Jets need to consider whether going "all-in" on Panarin is the right move for the franchise's long-term direction.

Kadri Open to Moving

Nazem Kadri's tenure with the Calgary Flames may be coming to an end. Despite having a contract that runs through 2028-29, Kadri has reportedly expressed a willingness to waive his no-trade clause. The Flames have struggled to contend since acquiring him, and with the team becoming sellers, Kadri may be seeking a fresh start.

Several teams are rumored to be interested in Kadri, including the Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, Minnesota Wild, and Dallas Stars. The Flames are reportedly seeking an "Andersson-type" return for Kadri, alluding to the recent Rasmus Andersson trade with the Vegas Golden Knights. Some teams have asked if the Flames would be willing to retain some of Kadri's $7 million AAV.

Maple Leafs in Turmoil

The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing questions regarding the future of Auston Matthews and the potential trade of Bobby McMann. While Auston Matthews is signed through 2028, insider Nick Kypreos believes that Matthews could be approaching the same territory as Connor McDavid in Edmonton, suggesting that Matthews may want to see significant progress towards a Stanley Cup before committing long-term. However, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman believes Matthews does not want to leave Toronto.

Bobby McMann's name has also surfaced in trade rumors, with the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings reportedly interested. McMann, a pending UFA with a team-friendly $1.35 million cap hit, is seen as a valuable asset by some contenders. However, some fans and analysts argue that trading McMann would be a mistake, as he brings a unique blend of speed, size, and effort that the Leafs' roster currently lacks. Trading McMann would be a failure for the Maple Leafs organization.