Special to Yahoo Sports
Trades involving struggling high-profile stars can be difficult, but their frustrated fantasy managers could be leveraged to your advantage. This week’s edition looks at three trade possibilities that fit that description. Additionally, we have a couple of slumping players who should be moved as well as a sell-high option.
TRADE FOR
Evan Bouchard, D, Oilers (99% rostered)
Bouchard has lived up to expectations after being labeled as a breakout candidate going into the 2023-24 season. He has generated 12 goals and 47 points through 49 appearances while adding 132 shots on net and 68 blocked shots. The 24-year-old defender is also averaging a career-high 22:43 of ice time. Bouchard ranks fourth among all NHL blueliners with 21 power-play points, consisting of five goals and 16 assists. He has been taking advantage of the increased role he’s been given this campaign.
However, he has cooled off offensively recently, which could open a small window for fantasy managers to attempt to trade for him.
Bouchard will enter Thursday night’s action with only three goals and five assists to his credit over his past 12 outings. Bouchard’s shot production may trouble some fantasy managers, but he picked up five on target in Tuesday’s 8-4 victory over the Red Wings. He hasn’t had many offensive hiccups this season, so there’s plenty of reason to believe that he can get back on track shortly. Fortunately, Bouchard’s spot on the man-advantage in Edmonton is also secure because the team doesn’t have a defenseman who can challenge him.
Example of a completed deal from the Yahoo Trade Market: Bouchard for Anze Kopitar
Kyle Connor, LW, Jets (95% rostered)
Connor has struggled to get on the scoresheet since his return to the lineup from a knee injury. After missing 16 games, he has contributed a mere two goals on 31 shots over eight outings. Similar to Bouchard, Connor could be a bit undervalued right now, which makes him an explorable trade target.
During his recent cold spell, Connor has been struggling with a disappointing 6.5% shooting percentage. However, this can easily be corrected and he should be able to get back on track. In his previous 26 appearances, he maintained a success rate of 16.7% on his 102 shots on target. Connor is still skating on the top line and first power-play combination while averaging heavy minutes.
Example of a…