Top trade targets who could shake up the NHL before the deadline, from elite scorers to impact defensemen and goaltenders.
Mar 2, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Hurricanes right wing Mikko Rantanen (96) takes a shot against the Calgary Flames during the first period at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
As the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline approaches, the buzz around potential blockbuster moves is reaching its peak. With teams either gearing up for a deep playoff push or looking to reshape their rosters for the future, the trade market is heating up. This season’s deadline features a mix of elite goal scorers, shutdown defensemen, and veteran playmakers who could change the fortunes of any contender.
Whether it’s a franchise-altering deal or a sneaky depth addition, these 10 players are at the center of trade discussions and could be wearing new jerseys by the time the deadline passes.
Mikko Rantanen
Right Wing, Colorado Avalanche
Age: 28
Stats: 60 GP, 27 G, 43 A, 70 Pts
Contract: Pending UFA, $4.625 million AAV
The Avalanche aren’t actively shopping Rantanen, but his name has surfaced in trade talks due to Colorado’s long-term cap concerns. The team still believes he’s a core piece, but if negotiations on an extension stall, contenders will be lining up for the elite winger. A powerhouse in the offensive zone, Rantanen’s blend of size, skill, and finishing ability makes him a game-changer. If he does hit the trade market, expect a bidding war.
Brock Nelson
Center, New York Islanders
Age: 32
Stats: 58 GP, 25 G, 30 A, 55 Pts
Contract: 1 year remaining, $6 million AAV
Nelson has quietly been one of the most consistent goal-scorers in the league, but with the Islanders struggling, he could be on the move. His two-way ability and strong postseason track record make him an appealing addition for any contender needing a second-line center. If the Isles decide to retool, Nelson might be their biggest trade chip.
Oliver Bjorkstrand
Right Wing, Seattle Kraken
Age: 29
Stats: 62 GP, 21 G, 32 A, 53 Pts
Contract: 2 years remaining, $5.4 million AAV
Bjorkstrand has been a reliable producer for the Kraken, but Seattle might be looking to shake things up. His ability to play in all situations—along with his underrated playmaking and defensive awareness—makes him an attractive trade target. Teams seeking a versatile top-six winger should keep a close eye on him.
Ryan Donato
Left Wing, Chicago Blackhawks
Age: 28
Stats: 59 GP, 15 G, 18 A, 33 Pts
Contract: Pending UFA, $2 million AAV
A depth scorer with a knack for timely goals, Donato could be a sneaky good trade deadline acquisition. He’s been one of the few bright spots in Chicago’s tough season, and his ability to play up and down the lineup makes him a great fit for a playoff-bound team looking for scoring depth.
Jason Zucker
Left Wing, Arizona Coyotes
Age: 32
Stats: 55 GP, 18 G, 20 A, 38 Pts
Contract: Pending UFA, $5.3 million AAV
A veteran winger with plenty of playoff experience, Zucker plays with an edge and brings a strong two-way game. If Arizona sells at the deadline, he’s a prime candidate to be moved. His scoring touch and defensive responsibility make him a perfect middle-six addition for a contending team.
Jake Guentzel
Left Wing, Pittsburgh Penguins
Age: 29
Stats: 61 GP, 30 G, 35 A, 65 Pts
Contract: Pending UFA, $6 million AAV
The Penguins are at a crossroads, and Guentzel’s future remains uncertain. If Pittsburgh decides to sell, he instantly becomes one of the top trade targets available. His chemistry with elite centers and his consistent goal-scoring make him a highly coveted deadline piece.
Elias Lindholm
Center, Vancouver Canucks
Age: 29
Stats: 60 GP, 19 G, 28 A, 47 Pts
Contract: Pending UFA, $4.85 million AAV
Lindholm’s strong two-way game makes him one of the most desirable centers on the market. Vancouver is pushing for a deep playoff run, but if negotiations for an extension don’t progress, they might be forced to move him. Expect teams desperate for a defensive-minded center to come calling.
Noah Hanifin
Defenseman, Calgary Flames
Age: 27
Stats: 63 GP, 9 G, 32 A, 41 Pts
Contract: Pending UFA, $4.95 million AAV
One of the top defensemen available at the deadline, Hanifin is a strong skater who can log big minutes. Calgary is reportedly still considering an extension, but if they opt to trade him, he’ll be a massive addition to any team needing defensive reinforcements.
John Gibson
Goaltender, Anaheim Ducks
Age: 31
Stats: 42 GP, .904 SV%, 3.07 GAA
Contract: 3 years remaining, $6.4 million AAV
Gibson has been linked to trade rumors for years, and this might finally be the deadline where he gets moved. Anaheim’s rebuild timeline doesn’t align with his prime years, and playoff-bound teams looking for an experienced goalie might take a shot at acquiring him.
Mark Scheifele
Center, Winnipeg Jets
Age: 31
Stats: 60 GP, 24 G, 39 A, 63 Pts
Contract: Pending UFA, $6.125 million AAV
A highly skilled center with an elite scoring touch, Scheifele would be a blockbuster addition to any team looking to bolster their offense. Winnipeg is still in the playoff hunt, but if things go south, moving him could bring back a massive return.
With the trade deadline approaching, teams will have to make tough decisions. Whether it’s a veteran looking for a Cup run or a young star becoming available, this year’s trade deadline could reshape the NHL landscape.
Images Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
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