The Arizona Coyotes' future was cast into uncertainty following their failed bid last month to construct a new arena and entertainment complex in Tempe. They informed season-ticket holders that they would continue playing in Mullett Arena on the campus of Arizona State University while they explore other local arena options.
On May 19, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported that the representatives for Clayton Keller met with the Coyotes to discuss the club's future on and off the ice. The 24-year-old winger is coming off a career-high performance of 86 points, tying the Coyotes' single-season points record.
Friedman indicated that Keller's agents didn't request a trade. Nevertheless, the fact they sought clarity on their client's behalf over the Coyotes' direction could concern the team's management. Signed through 2027-28 with an average annual value of $7.2 million, he's an important foundation piece to their rebuilding process.
Keller enjoyed a strong bounce-back performance after last season was cut short by a broken leg. As a result, he's a finalist for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy.
If Keller isn't pleased with the Coyotes' plans, he could request a trade. Management could also be sufficiently worried about his representatives' visit that they might consider trade options. The no-trade clause in his contract doesn't kick in until 2024-25, giving them plenty of time to evaluate offers as they did this season before trading Jakob Chychrun to Ottawa.
As a young scorer approaching his playing prime, Keller would draw considerable interest in this summer's NHL trade market. Here's a look at five potential destinations and what the Coyotes might get in return.
Anaheim Ducks
Under general manager Pat Verbeek, the Anaheim Ducks have been rebuilding their roster with young talent. They already have three up-and-coming stars in forwards Trevor Zegras and Mason McTavish and defenseman Jamie Drysdale plus a reliable scoring winger in 25-year-old Troy Terry.
Adding another young scoring forward would be crucial to the Ducks' rebuilding program. Despite the efforts of Zegas, McTavish and Terry, their 2.51 goals-per-game average and their power-play percentage (15.7) were the league's second-worst this season.
Acquiring Clayton Keller would be a big step in the right direction for the Ducks. Skating alongside Zegras and Terry on the top line would provide this club with a powerful scoring punch. They could also put him on McTavish's wing to spread out their scoring, giving them two dangerous lines.
The Ducks carry $39.1 million in salary cap space. While Zegras, Terry and Drysdals are restricted free agents this summer, there should be enough to re-sign them and take on Keller's cap hit. They can draw on their depth in second and third-round picks in the 2023 and 2024 drafts for trade bait as well as prospects like Nathan Gaucher and Tristan Luneau.