The 2023 unrestricted free-agent class projects to be one of the weakest in recent memory, so teams may resort to the trade market in order to boost their squads. They already have, too, beginning with the three-way deal that sent Ivan Provorov to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday. But several other intriguing players could be available via trade. Let's take a look.

Flames' Noah Hanifin, Elias Lindholm 

The Calgary Flames are entering a new era under general manager Craig Conroy, and during his introductory press conference he made it clear he doesn't intend on losing key pending unrestricted free agents for nothing – as the club did with Johnny Gaudreau a year ago.

The Flames have several crucial 2024 UFAs. Tyler Toffoli, Mikael Backlund, and Chris Tanev are among them, but we've decided to highlight Lindholm and Hanifin since they'd likely draw the most interest if they were made available. While they're also likely Calgary's biggest priorities to keep, the Flames would be wise to move them if they can't lock them up to long-term deals.

Lindholm had a down year in 2022-23, tallying 64 points in 80 games in what was a disappointing season for the team. But he's just one year removed from a 42-goal, 82-point campaign that saw him finish as the Selke Trophy runner up. Centers of his ilk rarely become available, so there will be no shortage of suitors if he's up for grabs.

Hanifin hasn't completely lived up to the potential of being a top-five draft pick, but he's still a solid player. And 6-foot-3 defenseman who skate well are always highly coveted around the league. Plus, he's still only 26 years old with room to grow.