The Seattle Kraken entered the 2025 season aiming for a Stanley Cup Playoff berth. Although they remain in contention, sitting nine points behind the Vancouver Canucks for the final Western Conference Wild Card spot, their chances are slim. As a result, speculation about potential trades involving pending free agents like Yanni Gourde has increased.
Gourde, a respected NHL veteran, is known for his versatility and championship pedigree. While his prime years may be behind him, he remains an effective player, excelling in penalty killing, physical play, and faceoffs. His role in the bottom-six of any lineup makes him a valuable asset, particularly as a pending free agent with minimal long-term commitment.
A two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2020 and 2021, Gourde’s experience further enhances his trade value. While a trade may not yield a blockbuster return for the Kraken, his leadership and skillset are likely to attract interest. Here are two potential landing spots for Gourde as the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline approaches:
1. Toronto Maple Leafs
Gourde has a 23-team no-trade clause, giving him significant control over any potential move. Reports suggest he would approve a trade to the Toronto Maple Leafs, a team in need of depth at the center position. Toronto currently relies on Max Domi as their third-line center, but Domi’s production has declined in his second season with the team, making Gourde an appealing upgrade.
While Gourde may not significantly bolster offensive output, his defensive reliability, physical play, and experience could strengthen Toronto’s third line. Additionally, moving Domi to the wing could create better overall balance. Gourde’s leadership and Stanley Cup experience might not guarantee a championship, but they could help the Leafs advance deeper into the postseason, something they have struggled to achieve.
2. New Jersey Devils
The New Jersey Devils, rebounding from a disappointing 2023-24 season, are contenders once again and seeking roster depth ahead of the trade deadline. Adding Gourde to their bottom-six could make an already strong lineup even more formidable. As a potential third-line center, Gourde would provide defensive stability, penalty-killing expertise, and playoff experience.
Although the Devils have experienced skaters like Ondrej Palat and Paul Cotter, their roster lacks significant playoff experience overall. Gourde’s presence could guide younger players through the pressures of a deep playoff run, enhancing the team’s chances of success. While not the final piece to their Stanley Cup puzzle, Gourde’s contributions could prove crucial if New Jersey aims to capture its first championship since 2003.
Conclusion
Yanni Gourde’s combination of skill, physicality, and experience makes him an attractive trade candidate. Whether joining the Maple Leafs to boost their playoff hopes or bolstering the Devils’ championship aspirations, Gourde could play a pivotal role for any team looking to make a deep postseason run.