We’re at that point. Many of the NHL’s general managers got together during the World Junior Championships, where trade talk is inevitably stoked. Most teams are hosting organizational scouting meetings this week, if they haven’t already. After that input is received, trade season is open in earnest. Fun time for the fans. Stressful time for the players. And if you’re a GM, it’s as busy as it will be all year.



It’s also an interesting market. Several conversations with GMs and league executives over the course of the past week or so have indicated that it’s a strong buyers market right now. As one GM put it, there’s already a lot of inventory out there and we’re early on in the process.



“Half the league is a moderate to aggressive seller,” said the GM.



It’s good news for potential buyers like San Jose, Pittsburgh, Winnipeg, Nashville, Toronto and others. Not so great if you’re...