While most trade talk around the league seems to center on Theo Fleury and Chris Chelios, there are some other big- name players who could find themselves pulling on a different sweater by the March 23 trading deadline.

One of those players who hardly has been noticed this season is Alexander Mogilny. The former 50-plus goal scorer has had the worst season of his career this year. Mogilny has just six goals and 21 assists in 38 games. Six goals in unheard of for a player of Mogilny's caliber. But three separate injuries have hampered his game severely this year.

With Mogilny struggling to find his game and the Canucks struggling to win a game, there has been a lot of talk of Vancouver general manager Brian Burke sending Mogilny off to a playoff contender before the trading deadline. Hey, if Burke can trade Pavel Bure, then why not Mogilny, too?

Mogilny admits that the thought of being traded has entered his mind. He knows he's not helping the Canucks the way he's playing now. And he's not sure how much of a help he can be in the future, as the Canucks seem to be in a weird sort of transition period.

But Mogilny is not alone. Vincent Damphousse is another player who could see action with another team before the season is through.

Vincent Damphousse by Meredith Martini

Like Mogilny, Damphousse is struggling through the worst season of his career. He has scored 31 points (including 11 goals) in 54 games. Over the past three seasons his point totals have slipped drastically, as well. He went from 94 points in 1995-96 to 81 the next year and 59 the season after that.

Adding to the trade rumors is the fact that Damphousse will be an unrestricted free agent after the season. If the Canadiens fall even lower in the playoff race, Damphousse and his $3.3 million salary could be moved for a prospect or two.

Damphousse might not be the only Canadien dealt. Teammates Mark Recchi and Stephane Quintal will also be unrestricted free agents who could exit stage left.

Recchi has struggled this season, as well. His point totals have declined significantly this season. He's also the team's highest-paid player. A contender could use the services of Recchi for the remainder of the season if the price is right. Recchi has a lot more upside than Damphousse. The Wrecking Ball's skills were put on display in the All- Star Game when he played well on a line with Fleury and Wayne Gretzky.

Perhaps a team like the Dallas Stars, who are seeking a winger, could offer a nice package to get Recchi. Damphousse, meanwhile, might find a home in a town like Buffalo. The Sabres have been searching for a two-way center for over a year. The lost out in the Ron Francis bidding. Perhaps they'll find Damphousse to be a cheap alternative.

As for Mogilny...it will be extremely difficult to find a team willing to give up much for him at this point in his career. It might be better for the Canucks to hang on to him and wait until next year. But then again, if the price is right, Mogilny could be dealt elsewhere.

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