The NHL's upcoming offseason promises to be a fascinating one, with several teams poised to make significant moves. Here's an analysis of eight teams that could be aggressive on the trade market this summer, along with commentary on their potential moves and strategies.
Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens, despite their impressive strides last season, still have room to upgrade for Stanley Cup contention. A key area of focus is the second-line center position, where Jake Evans has been a depth contributor, but may not be a reliable playoff performer. Adding a bona fide second-line center would alleviate pressure on Nick Suzuki and provide a running mate for Ivan Demidov to elevate his game.
Additionally, the Canadiens could be in the market for another right-shot defenseman, as they have only two NHL right-handed defensemen under contract for next season. With roughly $11 million in projected cap room and the potential to free up more cap space by trading Brendan Gallagher and Sam Montembeault, the Canadiens have meaningful cap flexibility in the short and long term. Their top-10 prospect pool and ownership of all first- and second-round picks further strengthen their position for big-game hunting on the trade market.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets share similarities with the Anaheim Ducks, who made significant moves last summer to improve their playoff chances. Columbus has high-end talent like Zach Werenski, Adam Fantilli, and Kirill Marchenko, but a six-year playoff drought underscores the urgency for a franchise to take the next step. The team's focus will be on acquiring a top-six winger and an impact center, with Werenski's future as a free agent in two years being a significant factor.
The Blue Jackets have $35 million in projected cap space and 15 NHL players under contract, with a priority to re-sign RFAs Fantilli, Greaves, and Cole Sillinger. Offloading Elvis Merzlikins could further enhance their cap flexibility. While they lack prized trade chips, the organization's league-average prospect pool and ownership of all first-round picks provide a solid foundation for potential trades.
Minnesota Wild
The Wild are desperate for an impact top-six center, and their pursuit of Dylan Larkin could be a significant move. With Joel Eriksson Ek injured and the team relying on Ryan Hartman and Michael McCarron at center, the Wild's playoff chances are compromised. Bill Guerin, one of the boldest general managers, is unlikely to sit on his hands, despite the lack of a proven centerpiece with star potential.
The Wild have assets like Danila Yurov, Charlie Stramel, and their first-round picks in 2027 and 2028, which could be dangled as trade chips. Creating more cap room through trades or contract adjustments is a possibility, as the team currently has about $11 million in projected space.
Seattle Kraken
The Kraken's future is uncertain, with a need to return to the playoffs and solidify their fanbase. CEO Tod Leiweke's promise of a prolific offseason and the team's track record of aggression in recent summers suggest a potential for bold moves. With nearly $30 million in cap space and a strong prospect pool, the Kraken could leverage Shane Wright as an asset for an offensive game-breaker.
However, the team's mediocrity and the challenge of attracting elite talent to Seattle may hinder their ability to make significant trades.
Carolina Hurricanes
The Hurricanes are in a unique position as an established Cup contender with ample cap space and trade assets. With approximately $12 million in cap space and a nearly full roster under contract, they have the flexibility to make bold moves. The team's decision to ship out Jesperi Kotkaniemi's contract, which is expected due to his lack of playoff performance, could free up additional cap space.
The Hurricanes' long-term cost certainty and ownership of all first-round picks, along with a respectable prospect pool, provide a strong foundation for potential trades.
San Jose Sharks
The Sharks are committed to a smart rebuild, focusing on meaningful upgrades that align with their short- and long-term goals. Their blue line needs major work, with only two NHL defensemen under contract for next season. Adding top-four defensemen who can eat big minutes is essential, and young players with upside like Michael Kesselring and Simon Nemec could be targets.
The Sharks have over $40 million in projected cap room and will need to spend to meet the salary cap floor. Their decision with the No. 2 pick and the potential excess of talented wingers could further enhance their ability to acquire top-flight defensemen.
Boston Bruins
The Bruins face a bind between their current performance and the need to capitalize on the primes of David Pastrnak, Jeremy Swayman, and Charlie McAvoy. President Cam Neely's aggressive approach to improving the team is evident, with a focus on adding a true No. 1 center and another top-four right-shot defender.
The Bruins have trade assets, including all first- and second-round picks, and over $15 million in projected cap room. Their ambition to make a splash is clear, but the right target must be identified.
New York Rangers
The Rangers' strategy is to target a quick turnaround rather than a full rebuild, despite their underwhelming track record. GM Chris Drury's letter to fans and reports of his desire to be active suggest a potential for bold moves this summer. The team's closing contention window and the pressure to capitalize on star players' primes may drive Drury's decision-making.
The Rangers have nearly $30 million in cap space and legitimate trade chips, including Vincent Trocheck and Braden Schneider. Their focus on acquiring young, impact players without compromising the team's long-term future remains to be seen.
