The NHL trades update may feel early but it’s never too early to talk trade, as deals can affect the playoff picture and influence NHL betting predictions. While the big trade deadline deals won’t come for a while, a few names are already causing rumors to swirl, such as:

The Ducks are starting oh-so-slowly and Niedermayer isn’t getting any younger. He clearly can’t be part of a future building process and probably wouldn’t mind playing some more meaningful playoff hockey. New Jersey reportedly wanted him last year; maybe he’d return to Jacques Lemaire. I wouldn’t count Detroit, Pittsburgh or Washington out of the running either.

This is a toughie since the Sens are surging into playoff contention but Spezza, who has just two goals this season, appears to have worn out his welcome in Ottawa. He could use a fresh start; I could see the Rangers taking a chance on him.

He’s part of the sad Leafs squad but he’s quietly on pace for 40 goals. Someone could use him as a No. 6 forward – the injury-depleted Wings come to mind, as do the Stars, who had a successful marriage with Hagman in the past.

We have to mention him, don’t we? You know he’ll have plenty of suitors and his play suggests he really doesn’t want to be in Tampa Bay anymore. He’s certainly young enough to turn things around and become a star again. The hockey odds of a Vinny deal happening could be as much as 50/50 now.