As a volatile quarter draws to a close, traders are looking ahead to potential winners in the new year. On CNBC's "Trading Nation," two strategists highlighted contrasting opportunities: a rebound in the beaten-down communications sector and resilience in dividend-paying real estate investment trusts (REITs).

Todd Gordon, founder of Inside Edge Capital Management, believes the communications sector, the worst performer of the fourth quarter, is set for a "sneaky catch-up" in 2022. He argues that the market is witnessing a rotation back into growth stocks after a prolonged value cycle, driven by his view that inflation is transitory. "I think we will see a move higher next year and I think tech is rotating back in, specifically large cap," Gordon said. He specifically named Netflix and Roblox as stocks poised for increased exposure.

In contrast, John Petrides, portfolio manager at Tocqueville Asset Management, anticipates a more volatile 2022 and advocates for a strategy built on dividend-paying REITs. He favors industrial and medical office property REITs, citing strong fundamentals and pricing power in an inflationary environment. "These are companies that can grow their dividend, pay out a high dividend yield... and the landlord can adjust rents higher," Petrides said. He also expects domestic stocks to continue outperforming until the 10-year Treasury yield reaches approximately 3%.

The divergent perspectives reflect the key debates heading into 2022: whether growth or value will lead, and how to position for persistent inflation and rising interest rates. Gordon is betting on a resurgence of big tech and communications, while Petrides is seeking safety and yield in tangible assets with rent-adjustment capabilities.