Top 10 NHL Trade Candidates to Watch Before the 2025-26 Deadline

Basio badr

ago 12 hours

The NHL trade market has seen limited activity in recent months, primarily driven by salary cap strategies and minor league movements. As teams look toward the upcoming March 6 trade deadline for the 2025-26 season, general managers are under pressure to optimize their rosters. Here are ten notable trade candidates who could be critical in the next trading season.

Top 10 NHL Trade Candidates to Watch Before the 2025-26 Deadline

1. Rasmus Andersson – Calgary Flames

Age: 28 | Position: RHD | Cap Hit: $4.55 million (2026 UFA)
Andersson has been a focal point in trade discussions due to his impending free agency. His robust defensive skills and ability to log significant minutes make him a valuable asset for teams seeking a strong defenseman.
2. Bryan Rust – Pittsburgh Penguins

Age: 33 | Position: Winger | Cap Hit: $5.125 million (2028 UFA)

A key player for the Penguins, Rust is valued for his experience and two-way play. With Pittsburgh undergoing a roster transition, he could be one of the forwards in high demand before the deadline.
3. Rickard Rakell – Pittsburgh Penguins

Age: 32 | Position: Wing | Cap Hit: $5 million (2028 UFA)
Rakell’s capability as a goal scorer makes him an attractive option. His previous performance in the last season ensures that he will draw attention from contenders looking to bolster their offense.
4. Alex Tuch – Buffalo Sabres

Age: 29 | Position: Wing | Cap Hit: $4.75 million (2026 UFA)
With the Sabres focusing on their playoff push, Tuch’s powerful game and scoring ability make him a critical player. His future in Buffalo depends on the team’s performance as the deadline approaches.
5. Jean-Gabriel Pageau – New York Islanders

Age: 32 | Position: Center | Cap Hit: $5 million (2026 UFA)

Pageau’s versatility and experience may lead him to be a sought-after rental player if the Islanders lean towards rebuilding. He offers solid faceoff skills and can contribute offensively.
6. Jaden Schwartz – Seattle Kraken

Age: 33 | Position: Wing | Cap Hit: $5.5 million (2026 UFA)
Schwartz is coming off a successful season and continues to hold trade value. If the Kraken consider selling, his Stanley Cup experience will attract numerous teams.
7. Jamie Oleksiak – Seattle Kraken

Age: 32 | Position: LHD | Cap Hit: $4.6 million (2026 UFA)
Known for his size and defensive reliability, Oleksiak can be a valuable addition for playoff contenders needing depth. His trade status may hinge on Seattle’s overall performance this season.
8. Mario Ferraro – San Jose Sharks

Age: 27 | Position: LHD | Cap Hit: $3.25 million (2026 UFA)
Ferraro’s all-around play makes him a desirable asset, especially for teams looking for a solid defensive contributor. His name is likely to circulate as the Sharks navigate a rebuilding phase.
9. Nick Robertson – Toronto Maple Leafs

Age: 24 | Position: Wing | Cap Hit: $1.825 million (2026 RFA)
Robertson has shown flashes of potential but has struggled early this season. The Maple Leafs are exploring options, and a fresh opportunity may benefit his career.
10. Brennan Othmann – New York Rangers

Age: 22 | Position: Wing | Cap Hit: $863,333 (2026 RFA)
The Rangers may consider moving Othmann if the right deal arises. Despite limited NHL exposure, his potential scoring ability makes him an intriguing trade piece.

As the 2025-26 trade deadline approaches, these players represent some of the most talked-about trade candidates in the NHL. Their performance and the dynamics of their respective teams will ultimately define their futures in the league.