NHL Trade Deadline: Top three players to watch out for at the deadline

As the March 3 NHL trade deadline approaches, rumors continue to circle across the league, with several players expected to be on the move. As speculation was intensifying, Bo Horvat became the number one target for many teams around the league. However, with Horvat moving to the New York Islanders, others are now being looked at instead.

"ISLANDERS LOCK UP BO! The @NYIslanders have signed newly acquired forward @BoHorvat to an eight-year contract extension!" - NHL

With Horvat off the market, the following players are the most likely and most intriguing names to watch:

#1. Timo Meier: Sharks forward's future might decide the pace of the trade deadline

San Jose Sharks v Arizona Coyotes

The 26-year-old forward from St. Gallen, Switzerland, has enjoyed another productive season for the San Jose Sharks. Through 51 games played this season, Meier has scored 28 goals and racked up 20 assists.

"If the Rangers acquired Timo Meier, he could help with more than just the team's offensive production @KevinWeekes | #NoQuitInNY | #SJSharks | #NHLTonight" - NHL Network

Timo Meier is a pending restricted free agent this coming offseason, with a qualifying offer valued at $10 million. It appears that the San Jose Sharks may be unwilling to sign the forward to such a lucrative extension, making him a prime candidate to be moved before the trade deadline.

#2. Jakob Chychrun: Coyotes could be amenable to a trade as they look to rebuild

Ottawa Senators v Arizona Coyotes

24-year-old defenseman Jakob Chychrun of the Arizona Coyotes is another name who has popped up in rumors all season. While he remains under contract with the club until 2024-2025, the rebuilding Coyotes may look to move their star defenseman for a haul of prospects and draft picks.

Chychrun will be at the top of several teams' wishlists before the trade deadline, given his abilities and team-friendly contract. The 24-year-old from Boca Raton, Florida carries a current salary cap hit of $4.6 million per season.

#3. Jesse Puljujarvi: A fresh start would benefit both player and franchise

Edmonton Oilers v Los Angeles Kings - Game Four

While Jesse Puljujarvi may not be as established as Meier or Chychrun, he will undoubtedly be an intriguing addition to teams at this year's trade deadline. So far, Puljujarvi has underperformed his expectations after being selected as the fourth overall pick of the 2016 NHL draft. However, a change of scenery could pay off drastically for the Swedish forward.

"Correct me if I’m wrong but this type of goal is why people are a fan of Puljujarvi. While Jesse doesn’t produce he can disrupt the play in favour of the Oilers to create chances." - Woz

The Tampa Bay Lightning are one of the teams linked to the struggling forward, which may be the perfect landing spot for the Edmonton Oilers forward. Through 49 games this season, Puljujarvi has recorded four goals and six assists, while also contributing to a -13 plus/minus.