Anaheim Ducks Trade Deadline Primer: 5 Trade Candidates

ANAHEIM, CA - JANUARY 17: Anaheim Ducks leftwing Nick Ritchie (37) leaps into the arms of center Adam Henrique (14) after Henrique scored a goal in the second period of a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins played on January 17, 2018 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CA - JANUARY 17: Anaheim Ducks leftwing Nick Ritchie (37) leaps into the arms of center Adam Henrique (14) after Henrique scored a goal in the second period of a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins played on January 17, 2018 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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OTTAWA, ON – FEBRUARY 07: Anaheim Ducks Defenceman Josh Manson (42) wears a DFID (Do It For Daron) hat during warm-up before National Hockey League action between the Anaheim Ducks and Ottawa Senators on February 7, 2019, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada. (Photo by Richard A. Whittaker/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

3. Josh Manson, 27-years-old, Right Defense

Why He’s on the Trade Block

The Anaheim Ducks poor play this season is exemplified by Josh Manson‘s own struggles. The entire defensive unit started the year off rushing passes and making poor decisions with the puck. While Lindholm and Montour improved in that area, Manson hasn’t been able to get his timing down and still misses on routine passes far too often for a player of his caliber.

42 would have no shortage of suitors should the Anaheim Ducks be willing to trade him. Being a modern-day physical Dman, who is a good skater and capable of producing offense, as well as a right-shot, Manson would garner a significant return. If trading Manson can net an offensively dynamic player and, possibly, a first round pick, Murray would be hard pressed to pass it up.

Why He Stays

In a league where speed reigns king, players capable of adapting the stay-at-home style of play to today’s game is a rarity. 42 has struggled in all areas of his game, but his career average 51.4% Corsi is not common for a player known mainly for his defense.

Manson is renowned for his willingness to defend his teammates and deliver massive hits. At times, he’s dawned the Alternate Captain “A” on his sweater as well. Murray wants to retool Anaheim’s roster, but trading a player of his ilk can cause negative ripple effects throughout the locker room.

Best Fit

Toronto — it’s no secret they are looking a right-shot to their defense.  Montour has also been linked to them, but he will likely be in for a big raise after next season and Manson’s $4.1 mil cap hit would be much more affordable for them.

Toronto’s notable prospects: Kasperi Kapanen, Andreas Johnsson, Semyon Der-Arguchintsev, Jeremy Bracco.