The NHL offseason serves as an opportunity for teams to strengthen their rosters through trades and signings. While some acquisitions are aimed at long-term success, many players are simply temporary solutions, ultimately destined to don a different jersey by the next trade deadline.
Consider Jason Zucker from last season. After four years with the Pittsburgh Penguins, he signed a lucrative one-year contract with the Arizona Coyotes. The Coyotes anticipated solid veteran contributions from the 32-year-old. Zucker recognized that his credentials and impending free agency likely meant he’d be traded before the deadline, which indeed happened when Arizona dealt him to the Nashville Predators, aiding them in their stretch for the Western Conference playoffs.
Here are 10 players who either signed contracts or were acquired during the 2024 offseason that might find themselves on the move before the 2025 trade deadline—some intentionally, others prompted by unforeseen circumstances.
Cap hit: $3.25 million
When the Edmonton Oilers traded Ceci, it was presumed they aimed to create financial flexibility to match the offer sheets extended by the St. Louis Blues to Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway. Removing Ceci’s $3.25 million cap hit provided the Oilers with some maneuvering room, although it ultimately didn’t aid in matching either offer sheet. Instead, general manager Stan Bowman appeared focused on youth, having acquired 24-year-old Ty Emberson from the Sharks in that trade.
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Despite Sharks GM Mike Grier describing him as a “high-character kid,” Ceci is set to turn 31 in December. He offers the Sharks a critical veteran presence on the blue line, and Grier is optimistic that Ceci will enhance their penalty kill. However, with Ceci in the final year of his contract, he stands out as a likely rental player for a Sharks team still stockpiling future assets during their rebuild.
Ceci logged over 20 minutes of ice time per game during his three seasons with the Oilers, rarely taking a seat as a stay-at-home defenseman. Throughout the regular season, he was consistently a player who was neither as bad as critics claimed nor as good as his team suggested. However, during the playoffs, fans’ concerns were confirmed—Ceci and Darnell Nurse managed a dreadful 33.8% expected goals percentage at 5-on-5.
Cap hit: $3.5 million
Mantha has some work to do to restore his reputation. His four years in Washington were lackluster following his breakout with the Detroit Red Wings in his early twenties. He was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights at the 2024 NHL deadline, where he managed a commendable 23 goals and 21 assists across 74 games. However, he was a healthy scratch during the last four games of the Knights’ first-round playoff exit against the Dallas Stars.
This offseason, he found a new opportunity with the Flames,
who signed him to a one-year deal that carries a $3.5 million cap hit. The Flames are in need of offensive prowess, and Mantha requires opportunities to play in scenarios where he can generate goals and elevate his stats. General Manager Craig Conroy mentioned that Mantha is anticipated to receive power-play time. There is speculation that he might join Jonathan Huberdeau on a line, particularly considering Huberdeau’s need to enhance his performance.
At 30 years of age and given the Flames’ current circumstances, this could easily turn into a classic “pump and dump” situation if Mantha performs well. Some team would surely desire his size (6-foot-5) and powerful shot—Vegas certainly showed interest. One can only hope that this time Mantha avoids ending up in the press box during the playoffs.
Cap hit: $4 million
Martinez is one of the many players who have been traded away from the desert after the Golden Knights either sought to improve their roster or decided some players were past their prime. After securing a long-term deal with 27-year-old Noah Hanifin, the 37-year-old Martinez had to take his chances with the Blackhawks during the offseason.
He concluded a three-year, $15.75 million contract with Vegas and signed with the Blackhawks for one year at $4 million against the salary cap. This arrangement works well for both parties: Martinez gains ample playing time while mentoring the young defensemen in Chicago, and GM Kyle Davidson secures an experienced defenseman who can be traded at the deadline.
Martinez is known for his physical style of play, boasting 131 games of playoff experience and three Stanley Cup championships—qualities that make him highly desirable to general managers during trade season.
Cap hit: $1 million
Kahkonen, at 28, served as a late-season goaltending solution for the New Jersey Devils after his acquisition from the Sharks. In six games with that defensively challenged team, he posted a .923 save percentage and a 2.51 goals-against average.
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He finds himself in a unique position with the Jets, where Connor Hellebuyck is expected to handle the majority of starts. With Winnipeg likely again being a robust defensive unit, one need only observe Laurent Brossoit’s performance last season (.927 save percentage, 2.00 GAA) to appreciate how a strong team can benefit a backup goaltender.
However, the Jets also re-signed Eric Comrie to a two-year contract, marking Comrie’s third tenure with the team. It is possible that one of them will remain on the roster while the other gets assigned to the AHL to support top prospect Thomas Milic.
Kahkonen’s cap hit stands at $1 million. Last season marked the second instance in his career where he was moved at the trade deadline, the previous move being from the Minnesota Wild to the Sharks in 2022. If the right opportunity arises, he could achieve a trade hat trick in the approaching deadline.
Cap hit: $
4 million
Fabbri, 28, recorded 18 goals and 14 assists for the Red Wings in the previous season, marking his fifth year with the team. This total was the highest he achieved since his rookie year. He also played 68 games, the most he has participated in since the 2019-20 season. However, General Manager Steve Yzerman had some priorities, including re-signing Patrick Kane and signing Vladimir Tarasenko, which led to Fabbri being traded to Anaheim.
Currently in the final year of his contract, Fabbri has a cap hit of $4 million. He will have the opportunity to play alongside some exceptionally skilled young offensive players in Anaheim. However, as he turns 29 next January, he does not appear to fit into the Ducks’ long-term vision.
This trade provided GM Pat Verbeek with a fourth-round pick and a tradable asset for a minor league goalie, along with some salary cap flexibility. Fabbri has the potential to enhance a team’s bottom-six forwards, and Anaheim may retain part of his salary if needed.
Cap hit: $2.4 million
Once again, Kakko has an opportunity to fulfill the high expectations set for him as the second overall pick in the 2019 NHL draft.
Rangers GM Chris Drury indicated that Kakko suffered an injury last season, which contributed to his tally of 19 points in 61 games. Coach Peter Laviolette stated that Kakko will have the chance to “seize what he wants to seize” this season.
Kakko, now 23, signed a one-year contract worth $2.4 million last June. As a restricted free agent next summer, his name has circulated in trade discussions over the past year, but the Rangers have yet to feel the need to trade him. Instead, they opted to keep him on for a sixth season, hoping he can achieve a breakthrough similar to that of Alexis Lafrenière.
If he fails to do so… well, potential remains potential, and teams may still be interested in taking a risk on Kakko. Moreover, $2.4 million in cap space represents valuable flexibility for a Rangers team that has not hesitated to be aggressive at the trade deadline.
Cap hit: $3.15 million
Dumoulin is the epitome of a trade deadline defenseman: experienced, physical, and a player with “rings in the room” due to the two Stanley Cups he won with the Pittsburgh Penguins, along with an expiring contract that carries a manageable cap hit of $3.15 million.
Having signed with Seattle in 2023, he played 80 games last season, averaging 17 minutes on the ice—down over three minutes from his days with the Penguins. His pairings with Justin Schultz and Adam Larsson both exceeded 53% in expected goals at 5-on-5. However, the Portland Press Herald reported that Dumoulin had requested a trade to the Kraken, preferably to a team on the East Coast. Instead, he was traded to Anaheim on the West Coast.
This trade suggests that Dumoulin’s time with the Ducks may be brief. He is precisely the type of defenseman that playoff contenders desire—ideally, one that plays back East.
Cap hit: $3.25 million
Faksa appeared to be a logical candidate for a trade this summer. At 30 years old and entering the last year of his contract, he was seen as valuable as Dallas sought to maximize its cap space.
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Recently, the Blues sought a bottom-six center following the trade of Kevin Hayes and with Oskar Sundqvist recuperating from an ACL injury. Faksa was a suitable match for both their needs and preferred style: he offers size (6-foot-3) and physical play throughout the lineup.
Although Faksa’s ice time declined over the past three seasons in Dallas, he continued to provide a consistent mix of blocked shots, faceoff victories, and sporadic offensive contributions (19 points in 74 games). He boasts 79 career playoff appearances, all with the Stars.
Should the Blues be competitive in the Central Division as the trade deadline approaches, they are likely to retain a player like Faksa. Conversely, if they struggle, he could serve as an excellent third- or fourth-line center for a team in contention, provided that team can accommodate his $3.25 million cap hit. Notably, since the Blues acquired him for “future considerations,” any return they might receive would be a bonus.
Cap hit: $6.5 million
During the NHL draft in Las Vegas, trade discussions regarding Necas circulated widely. The pending restricted free agent had a disappointing season, with his points dropping from 71 to 53. There were rumors that the Hurricanes might trade him to fulfill other roster needs instead of offering him a contract extension. Additionally, it was suggested that Necas could have been traded if he had not declined to sign a new contract with certain interested teams.
Ultimately, Necas signed a two-year contract with Carolina valued at $13 million. The 25-year-old center possesses significant talent but can be frustratingly inconsistent. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 243 points in 362 games, along with 30 points in 59 playoff matches.
There will likely be a substantial demand for him at the deadline with a $6.5 million cap hit and an additional year of contract control. However, when GM Eric Tulsky announced Necas’s signing, he emphasized that the center “will play a key role in the continued success of our franchise.” Time will tell.
Cap hit: $4.6 million
An NHL trade deadline wouldn’t be complete without the mention of Jakob Chychrun. Recently, the Capitals acquired him from the Ottawa Senators in exchange for defenseman Nick Jensen and a third-round pick on July 1, as Washington aims to enhance their blue line’s offensive capabilities.
Chychrun, 26, recorded 41 points in 82 games with the Senators last season, having played just 94 games over two seasons with Ottawa after being traded from the Arizona Coyotes. The Senators chose to move him instead of extending his contract, and now the Capitals find themselves in a similar predicament, as Chychrun will become an unrestricted free agent next summer.
An offensive-minded defenseman like Chychrun will always attract interest, and his
10 NHL Players Likely to Be Traded Before the 2025 Deadline
The NHL trade deadline is a pivotal moment in the hockey season, impacting teams and players alike. As we look ahead to the 2025 trade deadline, several players are generating buzz as potential trade targets. This article identifies 10 NHL players who are likely to be traded before the 2025 deadline, analyzing their current situations and potential destinations.
1. Connor Bedard – Chicago Blackhawks
Although just a rookie, Bedard’s impact has drawn attention across the league. If the Blackhawks continue to struggle, they may consider moving him for a substantial return.
Potential Destinations
- New York Rangers
- Los Angeles Kings
- Florida Panthers
2. Matt Duchene - Nashville Predators
Duchene’s performance has fluctuated, and with Nashville entering a rebuilding phase, he could be a valuable asset for contending teams looking for veteran presence.
Potential Destinations
- Toronto Maple Leafs
- Pittsburgh Penguins
- Boston Bruins
3. Vladimir Tarasenko – Ottawa Senators
Following his move to Ottawa, Tarasenko has shown moments of brilliance. However, if the Senators don’t meet expectations, he could be on the trading block.
Potential Destinations
- Colorado Avalanche
- Dallas Stars
- Washington Capitals
4. Jakob Chychrun – Arizona Coyotes
Chychrun has been a hot topic in trade discussions for years. With Arizona still in a rebuild, it makes sense for them to move their top defenseman.
Potential Destinations
- New Jersey Devils
- New York Islanders
- Seattle Kraken
5. Brock Boeser – Vancouver Canucks
Boeser’s inconsistent play and the Canucks’ cap situation may lead to a trade. A fresh start could rejuvenate his career.
Potential Destinations
- Philadelphia Flyers
- Calgary Flames
- Arizona Coyotes
6. John Gibson – Anaheim Ducks
Despite being a top-tier goaltender, Gibson’s time in Anaheim may be coming to an end as the Ducks look to rebuild. His skill set makes him an attractive option for teams in need of a goalie.
Potential Destinations
- Buffalo Sabres
- Toronto Maple Leafs
- New York Rangers
7. Kevin Hayes – Philadelphia Flyers
Hayes has been a solid contributor in Philadelphia, but with the Flyers undergoing changes, he could be shipped off to a contender.
Potential Destinations
- Vegas Golden Knights
- St. Louis Blues
- Detroit Red Wings
8. Timo Meier – New Jersey Devils
Meier was a key addition for the Devils, but if they fail to capitalize on their potential, he might be available as a trade piece.
Potential Destinations
- Toronto Maple Leafs
- Florida Panthers
- Boston Bruins
9. Thomas Chabot – Ottawa Senators
As a cornerstone of the Senators’ rebuild, Chabot could attract interest from teams looking to bolster their blue line, especially if Ottawa’s season goes sideways.
Potential Destinations
- Calgary Flames
- Colorado Avalanche
- Winnipeg Jets
10. Shea Theodore – Vegas Golden Knights
Theodore has been a reliable defender for Vegas, but with the team’s salary cap constraints, he could be traded to free up space for other key players.
Potential Destinations
- Toronto Maple Leafs
- Nashville Predators
- Carolina Hurricanes
Benefits of Tracking Potential Trades
Staying informed about potential trades can offer numerous advantages for fans, fantasy league players, and analysts:
- Fantasy Implications: Understanding trade rumors can provide valuable insights for fantasy hockey decisions.
- Team Dynamics: Knowing which players might move can influence how fans view their favorite teams.
- Market Trends: For avid followers, being aware of trade talks can help predict shifts in player value.
Practical Tips for Following NHL Trades
To keep up with the latest NHL trade news, consider the following strategies:
- Follow reputable sports news websites and NHL insiders on social media.
- Subscribe to newsletters for real-time updates on trades and player performances.
- Engage in fan forums to discuss potential trades and share insights with fellow enthusiasts.
Case Studies: Previous Trade Deadline Moves
Examining past trades can illuminate trends and strategies that teams may employ leading up to the 2025 deadline. Here are a few notable trades from recent years:
| Year | Player Traded | From | To</th | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Jakob Chychrun | Arizona Coyotes | Ottawa Senators | Strengthened Ottawa’s defense |
| 2022 | Claude Giroux | Philadelphia Flyers | Florida Panthers | Boosted Panthers playoff run |
| 2021 | Nick Foligno | Columbus Blue Jackets | Toronto Maple Leafs | Leadership addition for Leafs |
First-Hand Experiences with Player Trades
Many fans have personal stories about how trades have affected their favorite teams or players. Sharing these experiences can foster a sense of community among NHL followers.
- How did your team react to a surprising trade?
- What was the immediate impact on your fantasy team?
- Did a trade lead you to follow a new player or team more closely?
With the 2025 NHL trade deadline on the horizon, keep an eye on these players and the ongoing rumors. Understanding the dynamics of player trades can enrich your appreciation of the game and enhance your sports engagement.
