The NHL trade market is heating up as the March 6th trade deadline approaches, with several high-profile players potentially on the move. The Olympic break provides a pause for teams to reassess their needs and strategize for the final push towards the playoffs. Here's a look at some of the biggest names circulating in the rumor mill.
Panarin Lands in Los Angeles
The biggest news of the week was the trade of Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings. On Wednesday, February 5th, the New York Rangers sent the star forward to the Kings in exchange for forward prospect Liam Greentree and a conditional third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. The pick could become a second-rounder if the Kings win one playoff round this season, and a fourth-round pick in 2028 will be added if Los Angeles wins two playoff rounds.
Panarin, who was in the final year of his seven-year, $81.5 million contract, waived his no-movement clause to join the Kings and signed a two-year, $22 million contract extension with an average annual value of $11 million. The Rangers are retaining 50% of his remaining salary. According to Kings General Manager Ken Holland, the team wasn't interested in acquiring Panarin as a rental player, and Panarin also wanted to find a long-term home. Other teams, including Seattle, reportedly offered more lucrative deals, but Panarin ultimately chose Los Angeles. He expressed his desire to play for the Kings after speaking with Vladislav Gavrikov.
Kings coach Jim Hiller believes Panarin will immediately boost the team's offense, citing his dangerous offensive abilities and playmaking skills. Panarin led the Rangers in assists (38), points (57), power-play assists (15), and shots on goal (158) prior to the trade. The Kings hope that Panarin's arrival will improve their chances of making a deep playoff run. The Rangers, on the other hand, are entering a retooling phase, hoping to acquire younger players to support their core.
Laine's Future in Montreal Uncertain
Patrik Laine of the Montreal Canadiens is another forward whose name is frequently mentioned in trade discussions. Laine has been sidelined after requiring core-muscle surgery following an early-season injury. Even if Laine were healthy, there have been suggestions that the Canadiens would prefer to sit him. Montreal may need to include a valuable asset or retain salary to facilitate a trade. Nick Kypreos suggests Laine could be a "freebie with upside" for a playoff team or a longer-term evaluation project for a non-playoff team like Calgary. Some analysts have proposed a trade involving Laine and Andrew Mangiapane of the Edmonton Oilers.
Due to Laine's $8.7 million cap hit, the Canadiens might want to trade him. Despite his talent, Laine has had a tough couple of seasons with limited games played and injuries.
Other Potential Trade Targets
Several other players could be on the move before the deadline. Vincent Trocheck of the New York Rangers, Robert Thomas of the St. Louis Blues, and Dougie Hamilton of the New Jersey Devils are names to watch. The Columbus Blue Jackets will likely handle assets as contract negotiations for Boone Jenner reach an impasse. The Buffalo Sabres are reportedly seeking a "beefier blueliner" to bolster their defensive depth. The Vancouver Canucks may consider trading Conor Garland or Brock Boeser. The St. Louis Blues might consider trading Robert Thomas, Jordan Kyrou, and Brayden Schenn.
With the Olympic break providing a lull in the schedule, expect general managers to be working the phones, laying the groundwork for potential deals. The NHL trade deadline on March 6th is shaping up to be an eventful day as teams jockey for position for the playoffs.