If history serves as a guide, we might still need to wait a month or more before any significant trades occur involving NHL players.
Last season, prior to U.S. Thanksgiving, only two trades took place, both on the same day, with one team participating in both transactions. On Nov. 8, the Minnesota Wild traded Calen Addison to the San Jose Sharks while acquiring Zach Bogosian from the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Typically, it takes time for the needs and interests of competing teams to align.
Nevertheless, even at this early stage of the 2024-25 season, general managers have begun strategizing for the future. Preliminary discussions are happening, with crucial contractual factors always in the background.
While it might be premature to introduce a detailed Trade Board, the time is right to highlight some players who could be key in the upcoming trading season.
Here are 10 players to keep an eye on.
Age: 27
Position: LHD
Contract term: 2025 UFA
Cap hit: $4.725 million
Within the rebuilding Blue Jackets organization, Provorov stands out as a key asset to trade before the March 7 deadline. At only 27 years of age, this pending unrestricted free agent is already in his ninth NHL season and has a favorable cap hit, recently lowered to $4.725 million following the trade to Columbus. This amount could also decrease further. Provorov excels in all situations, capable of playing effectively on both ends of the ice, and is the type of player who typically demands a first-round pick in a trade. Considering Provorov’s career stage and the Blue Jackets’ competitive positioning, it’s more a matter of when he will be traded rather than if.
Age: 32
Position: LHD
Contract term: 2026 UFA
Cap hit: $6.5 million
A vital part of the Anaheim defense for over 15 years and more than 1,000 games, Fowler is beginning to feel the shift as he shares the lineup with five younger defensemen aged 25 or under. Additionally, with a year remaining on his contract at a $6.5 million cap hit, the circumstances may be favorable for a team looking to win now. Trade discussions concerning Fowler were certainly held over the summer. However, any potential move would largely depend on the approval of the 32-year-old, as his contract stipulates a four-team trade list that grants him significant influence over any relocation. Interestingly, it has been nearly eight years since he last experienced playoff action.
Age: 25
Position: RHD
Contract term: 2026 UFA
Cap hit: $3 million
As a highly compensated healthy scratch for much of this season, Liljegren’s time in Toronto seems to be coming to an end. The 25-year-old right-shot defenseman has appeared in just one game thus far, having been surpassed on the Maple Leafs’ depth chart by Conor Timmins. Timmins is currently taking third-pairing minutes behind Chris Tanev and Jake McCabe, all while earning approximately one-third of Liljegren’s $3 million cap hit. Additionally, with Jani Hakanpää also competing for playing time on the right side in Toronto, Liljegren has become somewhat dispensable. His abilities as a skilled skater and puck-mover are evident, but inconsistencies and questionable defensive choices have hindered his performance. Undoubtedly, he possesses the tools to thrive as an NHL player, yet after spending seven years within the Leafs organization, Liljegren has not established a permanent role and will likely seek opportunities with a different team.
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Age: 33
Position: C, LW
Contract term: 2025 UFA
Cap hit: $6 million
Nelson is a robust forward who has maintained a scoring pace of approximately 35 goals over the past three seasons. He can be effectively utilized as a second-line center or shifted into a wing position on the top line, and he can also be trusted with special teams responsibilities. As a pending unrestricted free agent, he represents the type of impactful player that contending teams would scramble to acquire if — and it remains a significant if — the Islanders find themselves out of playoff contention and choose to trade him before the deadline. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that the organization typically has a solid history of retaining its players, although Nelson is currently fulfilling the final year of his contract.
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Age: 23
Position: RW
Contract term: 2025 RFA
Cap hit: $2.4 million
As the playoffs concluded,
During the spring, the former No. 2 draft pick conveyed his intention to stay in New York, promptly signing a one-year deal at the amount he would have received from his qualifying offer — $2.4 million. Instead of seeking a larger salary or a longer term, he chose to provide the Rangers with cost certainty. However, this decision did not ensure added security for Kakko. He has had a strong beginning to the season, registering five points in six games while playing on the third line. If this performance continues, it could enhance his trade value, though it might make him less appealing for the Rangers to trade. Nevertheless, this season in New York centers around a win-at-all-costs mentality. The Rangers have previously assessed the market for Kakko and may consider including him in a trade package as they adopt an aggressive strategy as the deadline approaches.
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Age: 28
Position: C, LW
Contract term: 2025 UFA
Cap hit: $4.45 million
The demand for centers often exceeds the available supply, which is why Dvorak appears on this list. As a 28-year-old pending unrestricted free agent, he plays for a Canadiens team that has actively been selling at recent deadlines. Though his offensive contributions are limited, Dvorak has established himself as a reliable faceoff specialist and penalty killer. He would be an ideal bottom-six addition for contenders aiming to strengthen their depth. The key issue is his health, as he has faced various injuries in recent years.
7. Cody Ceci, San Jose Sharks
Age: 30
Position: RHD
Contract term: 2025 UFA
Cap hit: $3.25 million
Acquired by the Sharks from the Edmonton Oilers during the summer as part of a cap-clearing strategy, it seems unlikely that the veteran right-shot defenseman will complete the season with the struggling Sharks. He is not only a pending unrestricted free agent, but he also possesses the ability to endure the demands of playoff hockey, evidenced by three postseason runs with Edmonton. Notably, he played a crucial role on the penalty kill, which significantly influenced the Oilers last spring. While Ceci may have his critics, his blend of experience and defensive skills should be attractive to teams looking to enhance their depth before the playoffs.
Cody Ceci is playoff-tested from his Oilers days. (Cooper Neill / Getty Images)
Age: 29
Position: RHD
Contract term: 2027 UFA
Cap hit: $5.1 million
The Flyers, currently in a retooling phase, have a shortage of rental players as the deadline approaches. However, they might consider trading their imposing defenseman if the right offer comes in. Ristolainen carries a cap hit of $5.1 million on a deal that extends two seasons beyond this one, making some salary retention likely necessary. The right-handed Ristolainen displayed better on-ice performances when healthy last season and is ideally suited for a third pairing at this stage in his career.
Age: 31
Position: G
Contract term: 2027 UFA
Cap hit: $6.4 million
After undergoing emergency appendectomy surgery in late September, Gibson has not yet participated in any games this season, but he is on the road to recovery. A familiar name on our Big Board, the 31-year-old goalie remains an intriguing player, especially with one year left on his contract—this season plus two additional years. With successor Lukáš Dostál poised to seize Anaheim’s No. 1 goalie position, Gibson’s recent statistics may not be impressive but should be considered within the context of playing behind poor defensive teams. His potential performance in improved circumstances remains uncertain, yet it might be enticing enough for a team to take a chance.
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Age: 28
Position: LW
Contract term: 2025 UFA
Cap hit: $6 million
The Winnipeg Jets have started the season with an impressive 6-0-0 record, largely due to the exceptional performance of the Ehlers line, which could make his inclusion here seem questionable. However, consider this a “watching situation” involving a potential unrestricted free agent rather than a mere trade option. There is ample opportunity for the Jets and Ehlers to reach an in-season extension agreement, and keeping him as an “own rental” could be beneficial—even if that doesn’t come to pass. The uncertainty surrounding Ehlers makes this situation worth following closely, as the 28-year-old winger is a vital asset for the Jets organization and has limited capacity to influence his own trade market through a 10-
team no-trade clause. Significant choices are approaching for both the team and the player.
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(Top graphic: Meech Robinson / The Athletic, with images of Timothy Liljegren, Ivan Provorov, and Nikolaj Ehlers from Gregory Shamus, Sarah Stier, and Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)
Trade Watch: Key NHL Players to Monitor as Deadline Approaches
As the NHL trade deadline nears, teams are reassessing their rosters, strategizing for playoff contention, and eyeing potential trades that could significantly impact their season. This article highlights key players to monitor before the deadline, their current performances, and potential trade scenarios.
Top NHL Players to Watch
Several players are generating buzz around the league as teams look to bolster their rosters. Here’s a look at some of the most notable names to keep an eye on:
1. Patrick Kane – Chicago Blackhawks
Patrick Kane, a three-time Stanley Cup champion and former MVP, is one of the most talked-about players as the deadline approaches. The Blackhawks are in a rebuilding phase, making Kane a prime candidate for a trade.
- Current Stats: 24 goals, 32 assists in 54 games
- Potential Destinations: New York Rangers, Colorado Avalanche
2. Jonathan Toews – Chicago Blackhawks
Alongside Kane, Jonathan Toews has also been the subject of trade rumors. Both players could be packaged together to a contender looking for experienced playoff performers.
- Current Stats: 15 goals, 20 assists in 52 games
- Potential Destinations: Winnipeg Jets, Boston Bruins
3. Jakob Chychrun – Arizona Coyotes
Jakob Chychrun has emerged as one of the most sought-after defensemen in the NHL. His combination of offensive skills and defensive abilities makes him a valuable asset for any team.
- Current Stats: 10 goals, 26 assists in 48 games
- Potential Destinations: Los Angeles Kings, Toronto Maple Leafs
4. Bo Horvat – Vancouver Canucks
As the Canucks struggle to find consistency, Bo Horvat’s name has surfaced in trade discussions. Known for his leadership and scoring ability, he could be a game-changer for a playoff-bound team.
- Current Stats: 27 goals, 22 assists in 53 games
- Potential Destinations: New York Islanders, Nashville Predators
5. James van Riemsdyk – Philadelphia Flyers
James van Riemsdyk has been a reliable scorer for the Flyers. As Philadelphia looks to rebuild, he might find himself on the move to a team in need of offensive depth.
- Current Stats: 12 goals, 18 assists in 49 games
- Potential Destinations: Tampa Bay Lightning, St. Louis Blues
Key Considerations for Trade Decisions
When monitoring trades, understanding the factors influencing these decisions is crucial. Here are some key considerations:
Salary Cap Implications
Teams must navigate the salary cap while pursuing trades. Acquiring a high-cost player could limit a team’s flexibility in other areas. Understanding each player’s cap hit is essential for both sides in a trade.
Player Performance and Fit
The fit of a player within a new team’s system can often determine success post-trade. Teams will evaluate how a player meshes with existing rosters and their style of play.
Future Potential and Contracts
Teams are increasingly interested in younger players with term remaining on their contracts. A player with a favorable contract situation may draw more interest than a rental player.
Trade Rumors to Watch
Trade rumors can emerge from various sources, and keeping an ear to the ground can provide insights into potential deals. Here are a few trending rumors:
Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews: A Dynamic Duo?
Speculation continues about the possibility of the Blackhawks trading both Kane and Toews together. This could create a seismic shift in the playoff landscape, as two star players could instantly boost any contender.
Jakob Chychrun: A Hot Commodity
Chychrun’s impressive play has made him a hot commodity for teams looking to solidify their defensive lineup. His young age and upside appeal to teams eyeing both short-term and long-term gain.
Bo Horvat: A Leadership Asset
As team captain, Horvat’s leadership qualities add to his value. Teams looking for a veteran presence in the locker room may prioritize him as a trade target.
Benefits of Monitoring Trade Developments
For fans and analysts alike, keeping track of trade developments provides several benefits:
- Enhanced Engagement: Following trade rumors and player performances can make the season more exciting.
- Strategic Insights: Understanding team strategies can help fans predict playoff outcomes.
- Fantasy Hockey Impact: For fantasy hockey players, knowing potential trade targets can influence strategy and player selection.
Practical Tips for Following NHL Trade Rumors
To effectively keep up with NHL trade rumors and developments, consider the following tips:
- Follow Reliable Sources: Stay updated via reputable sports news outlets and insiders.
- Utilize Social Media: Platforms like Twitter can provide real-time updates and insights from analysts.
- Join Fan Communities: Engage with other fans in forums and social media groups to discuss potential trades.
Case Studies of Successful Trades
| Player | Year | From | To | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryan O’Reilly | 2015 | Colorado Avalanche | St. Louis Blues | Won Stanley Cup (2019) |
| Mark Stone | 2019 | Ottawa Senators | Vegas Golden Knights | Key playoff performer |
| Brayden Schenn | 2017 | Philadelphia Flyers | St. Louis Blues | Contributed to Cup win (2019) |
First-Hand Experience with Trade Speculation
As a long-time NHL fan, I can recall the excitement surrounding trade deadlines. The unpredictability can lead to thrilling moments and unexpected changes that reshape the league. Watching teams make strategic moves while anticipating their rivals’ actions is a unique aspect of the sport that keeps fans engaged.
Whether it’s a star player changing jerseys or a team taking a bold risk, the trade deadline is always a focal point of the NHL season. Keeping an eye on player performances and listening for whispers of potential deals can significantly enhance the enjoyment of following your favorite team.
