The NHL rumor mill is churning as teams gear up for what promises to be a busy offseason. Several clubs, including the Florida Panthers, New Jersey Devils, Carolina Hurricanes, Ottawa Senators, and New York Rangers, are expected to be active in the trade market. Here's a breakdown of the latest buzz surrounding these teams:
Florida Panthers
The Panthers, fresh off their Stanley Cup win, face some interesting decisions regarding their roster. Defenseman Aaron Ekblad has expressed his desire to remain with the team, but if he reaches free agency, the Dallas Stars could be a potential destination. The Panthers may also have trouble re-signing Brad Marchand, who could command a significant AAV in free agency. With Matthew Tkachuk on LTIR during the trade deadline, the Panthers acquired Seth Jones to bolster their defense and also looked to add to their forward lines, though they were primarily seeking rental players due to cap considerations for the following season.
New Jersey Devils
The Devils are determined to improve their scoring depth after an early playoff exit. General Manager Tom Fitzgerald has indicated that changes are coming, with the team actively scouting the trade market for offensive upgrades. J.J. Peterka of the Buffalo Sabres has emerged as a prime target, with reports suggesting his agent is pushing for a trade. The Devils may offer roster players to entice the Sabres, who are looking to become more competitive. Other potential targets for the Devils include Martin Necas. To create cap space, the Devils might consider moving Ondrej Palat or Dawson Mercer. Goaltending is another area of focus, with John Gibson of the Anaheim Ducks being a potential option.
Carolina Hurricanes
The Hurricanes are expected to be aggressive this offseason. Before the trade deadline, Mikko Rantanen's future with the Hurricanes was uncertain. After being traded from the Colorado Avalanche to the Carolina Hurricanes in January 2025, he had yet to commit to a contract extension. This hesitation sparked rumors that the Hurricanes might trade him before the deadline rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency. With just over 24 hours until the deadline, Carolina Hurricanes faced a tough choice—trade him now and spark a bidding war or keep him and hope he leads them deep into the playoffs, despite no guarantee he stays long-term. The Hurricanes may also be in the market for a goaltender, with John Gibson being a potential target.
Ottawa Senators
The Senators are looking to make a splash this offseason, potentially by acquiring a top-six forward. However, owner Michael Andlauer and general manager Steve Staios have denied rumors that Drake Batherson is on the trade block. Despite the denial, some believe that Batherson could be a valuable trade piece if the Senators want to upgrade their roster. Jason Robertson of the Dallas Stars has been mentioned as a potential target. With over $15 million in cap space, the Senators could be active in free agency as well. Contract extension talks are ongoing with Claude Giroux and Fabian Zetterlund.
New York Rangers
The Rangers are entering a crucial offseason after a disappointing 2024-25 season. Head coach Peter Laviolette was replaced by Mike Sullivan. There is speculation that K'Andre Miller could be traded, with the Seattle Kraken being a potential landing spot. The Rangers are also interested in Marco Rossi of the Minnesota Wild and are willing to move Alexis Lafreniere. To create cap space, the Rangers may consider trading Chris Kreider or Mika Zibanejad. The Rangers must also decide whether to keep their first-round pick or convey it to Pittsburgh as part of the J.T. Miller trade. The team has hired David Quinn and Joe Sacco as assistant coaches.
