Recently, Winnipeg gave permission to 21 year old forward Brad Lambert (30th pick in 2022) to seek a trade. Also, being scratched in three straight contests has fueled speculation of a possible parting of the ways between Anaheim and 21 year old d-man Pavel Mintyukov (10th overall pick in 2022). Lambert and Mintyukov have appeared in four and eighteen NHL games this season, respectively. Lambert also has appeared in two AHL games for the Manitoba Moose.
Still both in the final year of their entry-level deals, the potential availability of these former first-round picks looks to stir much interest around the league. This appears to be especially true of Mintyukov, as this marks the third season in which he has been in the NHL on a full-time basis. Although Mintyukov has seen his role diminished this season, he still has averaged over 15 minutes of ice time per night in his 18 games this season.
Lambert still is trying to find his footing as an NHL regular. Thus far in his career, he has managed just one goal and four points in 10 games for the Jets since his debut in 2023-24.