Veteran forward Owen Nolan could provide boost to playoff contender

This may sound odd, but a 38-year old forward who has been a staple of the NHL for 20 years could be a key piece in a trade in the next 24 hours.

It appears as if the Wild are likely to deal Owen Nolan, with Minnesota a long shot at best to reach the playoffs. Michael Russo, Star Tribune beat writer for the Wild, says that with the Wild so far back, Nolan could be gone:

A month ago when Wild was one, two points out, I was told the Wild was not trading Owen Nolan. I am not being told that anymore.

I do believe there’s a very good chance Owen Nolan will be dealt.

While no one is expecting Nolan to set the world on fire if traded, he could certainly provide a Gary Roberts-with-Pittsburgh boost to a playoff contending team. He still has skill, he can still score and he has that third-line veteran presence that many teams are looking for.

As for the 39 year old forward who could provide a scoring boost and veteran presence for a contender?

Mike Modano has a no trade clause.