Panthers spark trade chatter with Brandon Pirri scratch

The Florida Panthers, losers of four in a row, will sit forward Brandon Pirri in Friday's clash with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Though Panthers coach Gerard Gallant maintained after practice the decision was made in an effort to elicit an on-ice response, others believe there may be more to it.

TSN's Gary Lawless tweeted that Pirri's scratch could be because the young, inexpensive forward is on the trade block, adding that the Winnipeg Jets are among multiple Central and Metropolitan Division teams interested in his services.

A 22-goal scorer last season, Pirri has just nine this season, to go along with 21 points. His production has been limited to just two goals and one assist across the last 14 contests.

Pirri makes a little more than $900,000, and is set to become a restricted free agent at the end of the season.