The NHL offseason is heating up with numerous trade rumors circulating around prominent players. According to Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet, several teams are actively evaluating their rosters and considering significant changes leading up to the draft and free agency.
The Dallas Stars are reportedly prepared to match any offer sheet for Jason Robertson in the $12 to $13 million range, indicating their strong desire to retain him. An offer sheet from the Ottawa Senators would likely need to be in the $13.5 to $14 million bracket.
While Zach Werenski’s name has surfaced in speculation, the Columbus Blue Jackets do not view his contract situation as an immediate concern, with two years remaining on his deal.
Several teams are actively seeking defensemen, including the San Jose Sharks, Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Edmonton Oilers.
There is currently no indication that Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has requested a trade.
For the Toronto Maple Leafs to consider trading Matthew Knies, they would expect a substantial return, likely involving two roster players and a draft pick. Similarly, the Philadelphia Flyers would require an overwhelming offer to part with Owen Tippett.
Despite a significant contract ($9.25 million for four more years), Darnell Nurse is attracting interest from other teams. His preference is reportedly Philadelphia, though the Pittsburgh Penguins, under GM Kyle Dubas, are looking to bolster their defense.
The Buffalo Sabres are reportedly exploring trade options for defenseman Bowen Byram, who could be seeking an extension worth up to $12 million.
Dylan Larkin may be considering a move to Dallas, but GM Steve Yzerman is reportedly encouraging him to broaden his list of potential destinations.
The question remains whether the Dallas Stars can reach an extension agreement with Jason Robertson in the vicinity of $12 million, or if they will pursue a significant trade package.
The Montreal Canadiens could potentially revisit trade discussions involving Jordan Kyrou, with the Pittsburgh Penguins also showing interest.
It appears Morgan Rielly’s no-movement clause will not be an obstacle in potential trade scenarios.
The Vegas Golden Knights might need to consider acquiring Tomas Hertl to re-sign Pavel Dorofeyev. The Minnesota Wild could also be interested in Hertl as a center.
Jake DeBrusk’s no-movement clause is also not expected to hinder any trade discussions.
The Vancouver Canucks would expect picks and prospects in exchange for Elias Pettersson.
The St. Louis Blues are still looking to move 33-year-old defenseman Colton Parayko, who has four years remaining on his contract at $6.5 million annually. The market for 36-year-old Jacob Markstrom, after a down year and with two years left at $6 million, remains uncertain.
A key question for the New Jersey Devils is whether they will retain a portion of Dougie Hamilton’s $9 million cap hit for the next two years. Devils prospect Simon Nemec is eligible for an offer sheet but has no arbitration rights.
Clearing Adin Hill’s $6.25 million cap hit for the next five years may be a priority for the Golden Knights if they aim to re-sign Rasmus Andersson and extend Dorofeyev.
The Boston Bruins might consider moving Pavel Zacha if they cannot agree on contract extension terms.
The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly interested in Rasmus Ristolainen.
Mason McTavish is drawing interest from multiple teams, including the Senators. The Anaheim Ducks, aiming to win, would likely demand significant draft pick compensation in return.
The Penguins could explore trading Rickard Rakell and Tommy Novak to inject new energy and reduce salary cap commitments.
Sabres forwards Jason Zucker ($4.75 million) and Jordan Greenway ($4 million) could be on the move as the team seeks to manage its cap space.
Alexis Lafreniere of the New York Rangers has no trade protection for another season.
The Florida Panthers could benefit from cap space, and Evan Rodrigues, earning $3.02 million on the fourth line, could be a potential trade candidate.
It remains to be seen if the Rangers will find a suitable player in return for Braden Schneider.
While Seattle Kraken forward Kaapo Kakko achieved a career-high 44 points, the strength of the market for him is unclear.
