NHL Trade Deadline 2025: Teams in Need and Potential Moves
As the NHL trade deadline looms, several teams are looking to bolster their rosters to make a playoff push. With the deadline on March 7, teams are assessing their strengths and weaknesses to determine necessary acquisitions. Here’s a breakdown of key teams:
10. Los Angeles Kings: scoring Opportunities
Through 48 games, the Kings stand at 31 wins, 17 losses, and 8 overtime losses, totaling 109 points. Currently ranked 16th in goals with an average of 2.91 per game and 29th in power play success at 15.6%, the Kings could benefit from acquiring offensive assets to enhance their scoring capabilities before the deadline.
11. Carolina Hurricanes: Scoring Vulnerability
The Hurricanes, after acquiring mikko Rantanen on January 25, have recorded 33 wins, 21 losses, and 4 overtime losses, for a total of 95 points. However, their performance since the trade hasn’t been stellar, averaging 2.44 goals per game. With Rantanen potentially on the move, Carolina might explore additional scorers to reinforce his position or increase their offensive depth.
12. New Jersey Devils: Depth Concerns
the Devils hold 76 points with 32 wins, 22 losses, and 6 overtime losses. Despite injuries to key players like Jacob Markstrom and Jonas Siegenthaler, the team boasts a strong defensive record, ranking second in goals against. Though, their recent 2.57 goals per game average highlights a need for more effective scoring,notably at the centre position.
13. Colorado Avalanche: Secondary Scoring
with 65 points from 34 wins, 24 losses, and 2 overtime losses, Colorado’s young stars Cale Makar, Nathan MacKinnon, and martin Necas need more support. A lack of secondary scoring calls for strategic acquisitions to provide the skilled roster with options to elevate their performance.
14. Detroit Red Wings: Center and Offense Priorities
Following the season-ending injury to Andrew Copp, the Red Wings, at 57 points (30 wins, 22 losses, 6 overtime losses), must focus on enhancing their center depth and overall 5-on-5 performance, which currently ranks low. Their ongoing struggle in both scoring and defending may incentivize moves that improve these aspects.
15. Calgary Flames: Offensive Efficiency
With 22 points from 28 wins, 21 losses, and 8 overtime losses, Calgary is at a critical juncture. Ranked low in goals per game and overall 5-on-5 goals, the team needs to bolster its offense to make a meaningful playoff push, dependent on their performance in the remaining games before the deadline.
16. Columbus Blue Jackets: Playoff Contenders
with a surprising run to a playoff spot (28 wins, 22 losses, 8 overtime losses), accumulating 15 points, Columbus could focus on strengthening their roster by enhancing both forward and defensive lines to capitalize on their current momentum and solidify their playoff berth.
Enterprise Team of the Week: Tampa Bay Lightning
The Lightning have been in commanding form, winning six straight and securing points in eight consecutive games, outscoring opponents by a notable margin. With players like Brandon Hagel leading the scoring net, the team illustrates resilience and tactical prowess heading into critical matchups.
Teams Ranked by Analysts
Various analysts provided consensus on team rankings, showcasing the favorites like Winnipeg Jets, Washington Capitals, and Dallas Stars as top contenders, while highlighting others like the los Angeles kings and New Jersey Devils for their playoff potential based on current form and strategic needs.
Which teams mentioned in the article are looking to improve their scoring depth?
NHL trade Deadline FAQs
Q: Which teams are most likely to make important moves at the trade deadline?
A: Based on the article, teams like the los Angeles Kings, Carolina Hurricanes, New Jersey Devils, Colorado avalanche, and Detroit Red Wings are all in need of specific players to bolster their playoff chances. These teams are likely to be active buyers in the coming weeks.
Q: What are the biggest needs for teams looking to improve before the deadline?
A: Scoring depth is a common need across several teams, with the Kings, Hurricanes, and flames all looking to boost their goal production. The Devils need more consistent scoring, especially at centre, while the Avalanche need more support for their star players. The Red Wings need to address their center depth and overall 5-on-5 performance.
Q: How has the recent performance of teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning and Winnipeg Jets influenced trade speculation?
A: The Lightning’s recent hot streak and the jets’ continued dominance solidify them as top contenders. teams that are lagging behind might look to them for inspiration, perhaps leading to more aggressive trades as teams attempt to catch up.
To stay up-to-date on the latest trade rumors and analysis, be sure to check our website regularly for breaking news and expert commentary on the NHL trade deadline.
