3 forwards the offense-starved Ducks should trade for

While they're comfortably nestled in a playoff spot through 59 games, the Anaheim Ducks have one major problem: scoring goals.

Despite a lineup full of players capable of carrying an offense, the Ducks sit 18th in the NHL with 151 goals this season, the third-lowest total of any team currently in postseason position.

Part of this is due to core superstars Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf experiencing down seasons, with just 11 and nine goals, respectively, but Anaheim generates just 29.1 shots per game (24th) and owns a middle-of-the-pack power play at 20.2 percent (13th).

This becomes particularly troubling when considering Anaheim could very well end up playing offensively superior Edmonton or San Jose in the first round.

The Ducks shouldn't have any problems securing their playoff berth, but as the trade deadline nears, general manager Bob Murray - who has a surplus of defensemen at his disposal - needs to acquire some more offense if he wants his club to keep playing past April.

Here are three candidates to help the Ducks' scoring woes:

Evander Kane

On one hand, the Sabres are finally getting the production they expected from Kane, but on the other, he's making his trade value skyrocket.

Since Dec. 1, Kane leads the NHL with 18 goals at even strength, helping push Buffalo within three points of a playoff spot. His heavy cap hit ($5.25 million) through next season would be a big number on Anaheim's ledger, but sending one of several quality blue-liners the other way would help create space.

Hampus Lindholm, Sami Vatanen, and Cam Fowler all make big money on Anaheim's back end, and their clout could help persuade Sabres GM Tim Murray to make a deal.

James van Riemsdyk

(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)

Anaheim needs goals, Toronto needs defense. Let's make a deal.

The Maple Leafs' position in the standings over the next few weeks will play a big role in determining whether they deal Van Riemsdyk, but the Ducks are certainly a good suitor for the 27-year-old.

JVR sits third on Toronto with 19 goals and 44 points through 56 games, is a big body on the wing, and can contribute on the power play. Not to mention, he has familiarity with Ducks - and former Leafs - coach Randy Carlyle.

More salary cap work would be required on Anaheim's end, but that's a part of making trades in today's NHL, and Toronto could potentially sweeten the pot with one of its extra draft picks.

P.A. Parenteau

If the Ducks fail to orchestrate a big-splash deal, Parenteau could provide some cheap production.

The 33-year-old is a pending unrestricted free agent, and his $1.25-million salary would be much easier for Murray to stomach.

Parenteau's 13 goals with the Devils this season outpace all but three forwards on Anaheim.

He's consistently hovered in the 15-20 goal range throughout his career, and is rumored to be expendable as New Jersey faces an uphill battle in reaching the playoffs.