Stanley Cup contenders Florida, Colorado, and Edmonton prepare for NHL trade deadline with strategic moves.

Florida Panthers, Edmonton Oilers, and Colorado Avalanche make major trades to improve roster depth ahead of NHL trade deadline.

The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, but Stanley Cup contenders are not waiting to make moves. The Florida Panthers, Edmonton Oilers, and Colorado Avalanche all made significant trades to bolster their rosters for a deep playoff run.

The Panthers acquired Vladimir Tarasenko from Ottawa, adding a dynamic offensive option to their already strong lineup. The Oilers added Adam Henrique and Sam Carrick from Anaheim, while also sending a first-round pick to the Ducks. The Avalanche made moves to acquire defenseman Sean Walker from Philadelphia and center Casey Mittelstadt from Buffalo.

These trades have shaken up the landscape of the league, with Florida now the Cup favorite on FanDuel Sportsbook. The defending champion Vegas Golden Knights also made a move by acquiring Anthony Mantha from Washington.

The Flyers, who acquired Ryan Johansen from Colorado, immediately put him on waivers. GM Danny Briere is looking to build for the future and has not ruled out making more moves before the deadline.

Tarasenko, who has playoff experience and a Stanley Cup win with St. Louis, chose Florida as his preferred destination due to his relationship with Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky. Mittelstadt, who is having a career year with Buffalo, adds depth to the Avalanche's lineup.

With the trade deadline approaching, teams are looking to make moves to position themselves for a deep playoff run. The excitement is building as teams gear up for the final stretch of the season.

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