The NHL offseason is in full swing, and several intriguing storylines are developing across the league. From potential blockbuster trades to contract negotiations, here's a look at some of the latest rumblings.
Blackhawks Considering Trading No. 3 Overall Pick
The Chicago Blackhawks, armed with the No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NHL Entry Draft, are reportedly open to trading the selection. According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, the Blackhawks are willing to part with the pick to acquire a "difference-maker" who can contribute immediately. This move signals a potential shift in strategy for the Blackhawks, who have been focused on rebuilding through the draft in recent years.
General Manager Kyle Davidson appears ready to accelerate the team's return to contention by adding an established NHL talent. Seravalli suggests that the Blackhawks are not interested in simply acquiring a player to fill a roster spot but are targeting someone who can significantly impact their lineup.
Potential trade partners and targets remain speculative, but the Blackhawks' willingness to move such a high pick indicates a desire to make a splash this offseason. Some analysts have mentioned the Buffalo Sabres as a potential trade partner. Names like Bryan Rust from the Pittsburgh Penguins and Jason Robertson from the Dallas Stars have been floated as possible targets.
Flames Eyeing Sabres' JJ Peterka
The Calgary Flames have reportedly expressed interest in Buffalo Sabres forward JJ Peterka. Seravalli noted that the situation has "really heated up" in recent days, suggesting that the Flames are actively pursuing a deal for the young winger. Elliotte Friedman added that the Sabres are beginning to acknowledge Peterka's potential unhappiness, making a trade more likely.
Peterka, 23, has emerged as a promising offensive talent for the Sabres, showcasing consistent improvement since his rookie season. His combination of skill and youth makes him an attractive target for the Flames, who are looking to inject more offense into their lineup.
The Flames' interest in Peterka could lead to a trade between the two teams, or Calgary might explore the possibility of signing Peterka to an offer sheet. An offer sheet would require the Flames to compensate the Sabres with draft picks, the number and quality of which would depend on the salary offered to Peterka.
Marner's Future in Toronto Uncertain
Mitch Marner's future with the Toronto Maple Leafs is increasingly uncertain, with reports suggesting that he may be seeking a change of scenery. Several of Marner's teammates reportedly believe that he is likely to sign with a Western Conference team, seeking a fresh start away from the intense scrutiny of the Toronto market.
Marner, who has spent his entire NHL career with the Maple Leafs, has faced significant pressure and criticism, particularly following the team's playoff disappointments. A move to the Western Conference would offer him a chance to escape the constant spotlight and reset his career.
Several Western Conference teams, including the Los Angeles Kings, Vegas Golden Knights, and Seattle Kraken, have the cap space and the need for a top-six forward like Marner. A trade to one of these teams would allow the Maple Leafs to acquire valuable assets in return, potentially reshaping their roster for the future.
Elliotte Friedman reported that Marner's camp is not engaged with the Maple Leafs regarding a contract extension, further fueling speculation that he will test the free-agent market. With free agency looming, Marner's decision will be one of the most closely watched storylines of the offseason.
While the Carolina Hurricanes have shown interest, it appears Marner is looking for a clean break from the Eastern Conference entirely. A sign-and-trade with a team like the Vegas Golden Knights has been suggested, potentially involving William Karlsson going to Toronto.
