Speculation is brewing that Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke could be in the market for a potential big name player by the deadline.


LOS ANGELES TIMES: Eric Stephens reports Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke is seeking more offense but he might not be willing to part with the first round picks in this year's draft that he acquired from the Edmonton Oilers (currently 14th overall in the Western Conference) as compensation for the Oilers signing away Dustin Penner last summer. The Ducks are believed interested in Toronto's Mats Sundin, while Marian Hossa might also be available, but to acquire players like those could cost the Ducks a top prospect like Bobby Ryan or Brian Salcido, possibly a roster player plus the Edmonton pick. Burke admitted he's evaluating all scenarios but won't be forced into making a panic trade to bolster his offense.



ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER: Dan Wood also reports Burke is considering his options but also notes that Burke said he's "not a big trade-deadline guy", adding he'd like to see how his roster performs when Sami Pahlsson, Mathieu Schneider and Teemu Selanne return to the lineup.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Burke could pull off a surprise deal by the deadline for a big name scorer, but I think he'll be patient and see how well those aforementioned players adjust to their return to the lineup and how their contributions affect the Ducks. Should their additions sufficiently bolster the Ducks Burke will have no need to swing a major deadline deal.