Jarome Iginla's absence from the Calgary Flames' lineup Wednesday prompted widespread speculation that the team captain was about to be traded.

Iginla didn't play against the Colorado Avalanche, missing his first game since April 2007.

The Boston Bruins, Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings and Chicago Blackhawks were all rumored to be possible destinations for Iginla, ESPN.com and TSN reported. The 35-year-old veteran will be a free agent following the season.

Boston prospect Alexei Khokhlachev was a late scratch for AHL Providence on Wednesday, after young defenseman Matt Bartkowski was a healthy scratch for the Bruins in their game against the Montreal Canadiens. Bartkowski signed a contract extension through next season on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, Boston general manager Peter Chiraelli said on his weekly appearance on the team's flagship radio station that he won't deal 19-year-old goalie Malcolm Subban.

"He's young. He's a very good goalie prospect, and I see him in our future and being a big part of our future," Chiarelli said.

Iginla has played 16 seasons for Calgary, appearing in a franchise-record 1,218 games. He also has the Flames marks for goals (525) and points (1,095) is second in assists (570). This season, he has nine goals and 13 assists through 31 games.

The NHL trade deadline is April 3.