2026 NHL Trade Deadline Rumors: 25 Players Most Likely to Be Moved.

The 2026 NHL trade deadline is fast approaching on March 6 at 3 p.m. ET, and with the 2026 Winter Olympics now in the rearview mirror, teams are fully shifting gears toward roster adjustments. As of February 28, 2026, the market is heating up: non-playoff sellers like Calgary, Vancouver, St. Louis, and New York (Rangers) are actively shopping assets for draft picks, prospects, or cap relief, while contenders scout upgrades in defense, secondary scoring, and veteran leadership.The Hockey News released its latest "Trade Deadline Board" on February 27, 2026, highlighting the top 25 players most worth watching. This ranking blends trade likelihood (contract status, team position, no-trade clauses, recent rumors) with potential impact (on-ice production, playoff pedigree, versatility).


It's not purely a "best available" list—some elite talents rank lower due to barriers like high cap hits, long-term deals, or team reluctance—but it captures the biggest names and storylines circulating right now.Here's a detailed breakdown of all 25, with expanded explanations on why each is in play, key stats/context, rumored destinations (where reported), and factors that could make or break a deal:


Nazem Kadri, C, Calgary Flames ($7M cap hit, 3 years left)

The Flames' top scorer (39 points in 56 games, including solid two-way play) has been a long-rumored move, but reports (TSN's Darren Dreger) confirm he now wants out after his no-movement clause shifted to a 13-team no-trade list. At 35, he's a proven Cup winner (2022 with Colorado), strong faceoff guy, and fits contenders needing center depth. Colorado reunion buzz is strong (familiar system, past success), but other spots like Florida or Dallas could emerge. Calgary's bottom-tier standing makes this feel inevitable unless a surprise extension happens.

Dougie Hamilton, D, New Jersey Devils ($9M cap hit, 2 years left)

Once a marquee signing, Hamilton's production has dipped post-injuries, but his power-play quarterbacking remains valuable. New Jersey explored moves earlier, but he reportedly blocked San Jose. Modified no-trade clause and salary retention will be key hurdles—teams like contenders needing right-shot D (Boston?) might bite if Devils sweeten it.

Vincent Trocheck, C, New York Rangers ($5.625M cap hit, 3 years left)

Rangers are clearly retooling (already traded Panarin), so Trocheck (36 points in 43 games, elite faceoffs, reliable middle-six) is a logical next piece. 12-team no-trade list gives him input, but cost certainty and grit make him appealing to teams like Minnesota (GM ties via Olympics) or Colorado.

Brayden Schenn, C, St. Louis Blues ($6.5M cap hit, 2 years left)

The 34-year-old captain and Blues lifer has seen scoring drop amid team struggles near the basement. Last year's late surge kept him; this year's outlook is different—prime veteran sell candidate for leadership and playoff experience.

Ryan O'Reilly, C, Nashville Predators ($4.5M cap hit, 1 year left)

Nashville's leading scorer looks content, but no NTC (despite treated as one) opens the door. Toronto, Washington, and Colorado are perennial links for the two-time Cup winner's faceoff prowess and intangibles.

Tyler Myers, D, Vancouver Canucks ($3M cap hit, 1 year left)

Held out recently for "roster management" amid talks; full no-movement clause gives him veto power. Reports say he wasn't thrilled with prior proposals—Vancouver's lottery trajectory pushes this, but he controls his fate.

Bobby McMann, LW/RW, Toronto Maple Leafs ($1.35M cap hit, pending UFA)

Breakout year (19 goals, 32 points in 57 games) on a cheap deal makes him attractive secondary scoring. Leafs outside playoffs but not fully sellers—trade him if re-signing looks uncertain to gain picks/prospects.

Evander Kane, RW, Vancouver Canucks ($5.125M cap hit, pending UFA)

Market interest exists for the 34-year-old's physicality and playoff scoring (strong post-Olympic run last year). Canucks could retain salary—lottery-bound team likely moves him soon.

Blake Coleman, RW/LW/C, Calgary Flames ($4.9M cap hit, 1 year left)

Versatile checker (depth scoring, PK, physical) who's aware of rumors. Cup winner with Tampa (2020-21)—ideal "last piece" for contenders.

Zach Whitecloud, D, Calgary Flames ($2.75M cap hit, 2 years left)

Fresh off Vegas trade (Jan 18 for Andersson); increased ice time boosts value. Defensive reliability—potential quick flip (Boston linked after missing Andersson?).

Michael Bunting, LW/RW, Nashville Predators ($4.5M cap hit, pending UFA)

30 points in limited minutes; drives net, adds offense/physicality—valuable if Preds pivot to sell despite hunt.

Justin Faulk, D, St. Louis Blues ($6.5M cap hit, 1 year left)

Consistent offense (11G/30P in 57GP), high ice time—frequent rumor target (Bruins connected).

Connor Murphy, D, Chicago Blackhawks ($4.4M cap hit, pending UFA)

Blocked shots leader; veteran stability for young D corps—longtime candidate, now ideal sell time.

Logan Stanley, D, Winnipeg Jets ($1.25M cap hit, pending UFA)

6'7" defensive giant with career-high offense (9G/18P)—cheap depth for teams needing size.

Elias Pettersson, C, Vancouver Canucks ($11.6M cap hit, 6 years left)

Big-name rebuild piece if Vancouver goes full youth mode. Carolina, Detroit, LA interest—high risk/reward due to term and cap.

Scott Laughton, C, Toronto Maple Leafs ($3M cap hit, pending UFA)

Acquired last year; scoring dipped (11 points)—gritty depth in right role could salvage trade value.

Jordan Kyrou, RW, St. Louis Blues ($8.125M cap hit, 5 years left)

Off year but prime talent (past 70-point seasons)—high price, more likely offseason.

Jake DeBrusk, LW, Vancouver Canucks ($5.5M cap hit, 5 years left)

Others mentioned to watch: Robert Thomas (STL), Brandon Carlo (TOR), Steven Stamkos (NSH), Jonathan Marchessault (NSH), Shane Wright (SEA), Patrik Laine (MTL), Warren Foegele (LA), Conor Garland (VAN).The next week will be wild—Calgary and Vancouver could dominate headlines. Check The Hockey News, TSN, Sportsnet, or NHL.com for real-time updates as deals drop. Who do you see moving first, or which team lands the biggest upgrade? Let me know for more breakdowns!


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