Trade market: the next few hours will be crucial for Kent Hughes and his counterparts

The holiday season is fast approaching and for the past few years, the NHL has instituted a transaction freeze during this festive period. The goal was to take the stress away from the players so that they could focus on their families during the celebrations.

As Pierre LeBrun reminds us, NHL GMs have until tonight to improve their rosters. After that, they will not be able to trade or put players on waivers until December 28.





An initial trade, by the way, took place this Monday morning between the Avalanche and Leafs:


It will be interesting to see if this freeze causes any teams to make a move today. Some teams certainly won't want to wait eight days to improve their team, knowing that their chance to make the playoffs is on the line right now.

It will be interesting to see if the CH will take advantage of the opportunity and start liquidating their assets to clubs down the line today. Many rumors are linking the Montreal club to the Edmonton Oilers as they are rumored to be interested in getting their hands on Josh Anderson and Joel Edmundson. The name of Quebec prospect Xavier Bourgault is also being speculated.


A file to follow during the day...