from Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen,

While it makes some sense that the Toronto Maple Leafs might have an interest in bringing Spezza home — the Maple Leafs have never found a true number one centre — there’s little chance Murray would trade him to the Senators’ arch rivals. The Senators GM would also be relunctant to trade within the division, for fear of Spezza coming back to burn the Senators. (For reference purposes, see Ben Bishop and Tampa Bay Lightning)

Keep all that in mind while considering these potential homes for the captain.

St. Louis Blues- Why would this make sense? In their disappointing first round playoff exit, the Blues scored only 2.3 goals per game (14th of 16 teams) and their power play operated at a dreadful 6.9 per cent success rate. Spezza, meanwhile, has scored at a point per game pace throughout his career and is one of the NHL’s best power play players....

Nashville Predators- Why would this make sense? After years and years of plodding, deliberate, defensive-oriented hockey, Nashville finally fired Barry Trotz, who had been the only coach in franchise history. Nashville finished 19th in goals scored last season and they were dead last in 2013 and All-Star defenceman Shea Weber has been the club’s leading scorer for the past two seasons....

Anaheim Ducks- Why would this make sense? The Ducks already have one of the top centres in the NHL — Ryan Getzlaf is a Hart Trophy finalist — and the addition of Spezza would give them a 1-2 punch that could come close to rivalling the Sidney Crosby-Evgeni Malkin combination in Pittsburgh....

Florida Panthers- Why would this make sense? There’s no such thing as status quo in Florida and the new ownership will be looking to put a fresh stamp on the franchise. The addition of a veteran centre such as Spezza could take some pressure off Jonathan Huberdeau. The Panthers, always in a fight for attention in a busy sports market, could make a splash by adding a marquee name....

more on each team...