NHL Rumor Roundup: Jared McCann and Brandt Clarke in trade speculation

Ever since the rumor rounds returned with a new twist, the Seattle Kraken's Jared McCann and the Los Angeles Kings' Brandt Clarke have been the two most outstanding individuals. Attention is being drawn to both players for very different reasons.

McCann, the most consistent and reliable scorer for the Kraken, is linked to teams needing additional offensive strength, while Clarke is an option on the trade list, though the Kings seem hesitant to make that move.

Jared McCann’s value to the Seattle Kraken

Jared McCann has been the focal point of the offense for the Seattle Kraken. He has had 3 consecutive seasons of over 60 points to his name, with a 40-goal, 70-point season in 2022-2023. Although there have been a few rumors about the Montreal Canadiens and New Jersey Devils being interested in him, McCann’s departure from Seattle does not seem to be in the cards.

In addition to the above, McCann’s contract makes him even more attractive — he is under contract until 2026-27 for $5 million per year and comes with a 10-team no-trade clause. If the Kraken do not struggle this season, it is unlikely he can be taken from them without giving up a lot in return.

Brandt Clarke’s future with the Los Angeles Kings

The Los Angeles Kings are on the other side of these developments and are now working on reshaping their blue line after summer departures and veteran additions.

Amid this reorganization, young defenseman Brandt Clarke also came into the rumor spotlight. At 22 years of age, Clarke showed promising growth last season with 33 points in 78 games.

While rumors circled that the Kings wanted to move him, it now looks like new general manager Ken Holland wants to gauge Clarke’s performance before taking action. Trading Clarke now would be a gamble, given his measures and entry-level contract, and would become even more so if he blossoms into a franchise defenseman.Also Read: Evander Kane shares heartfelt birthday tribute to finance Mara TeigenJared McCann talks fade away yet again as the off-season ends. The Seattle Seahawks have no plans to let him go. At the same time, the Los Angeles Kings have no plans of letting go of Brandt Clarke. Even then, the performance of the players and the direction of the team could change the trade narratives very quickly.