Winnipeg Jets captain and prime trade target Andrew Ladd has been scratched from the lineup for Thursday's game against the Dallas Stars.
While the reason for the scratch is unknown, conversations between the Jets and Chicago Blackhawks in regards to a potential trade are believed to be heating up, according to Gary Lawless of TSN.
Including Thursday's game in Dallas, the Jets have two games remaining prior to the NHL's Feb. 29 trade deadline.
Ladd recorded a goal and saw almost 21 minutes of ice time in Tuesday's 5-3 loss to Dallas.
