As the NHL transitions into 2026, trade winds are already picking up, with several prominent players potentially on the move. General managers are evaluating their rosters, and agents are gauging the market, setting the stage for potential blockbuster deals.
Matthews' Future in Toronto Uncertain
The most significant name circulating in early trade discussions is Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Despite being under contract through the 2027-28 season, there's growing speculation that the star center might be growing discontented in Toronto. While there's no official trade request, rumblings suggest Matthews "is not loving life in Toronto". Factors such as the team's performance, the pressure of playing in Toronto, and adjustments following the departure of Mitch Marner have fueled the speculation.
Several teams have been linked, albeit loosely, to Matthews, including the San Jose Sharks and Detroit Red Wings. Analyst Ryan Dixon suggested a scenario where Matthews could be traded to the Sharks for a package centered around prospect Michael Misa. The Sharks, lacking elite offensive talent, could view Matthews as a franchise-altering acquisition. The Red Wings, seeking an elite center, might see Matthews as a way to accelerate their rebuild.
However, Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving has denied discussing a potential trade with Matthews or exploring the possibility of him waiving his no-trade clause. Matthews himself is under a 4-year, $53 million contract.
Other Potential Trade Candidates
Besides Matthews, other players are attracting attention in the trade market. Rasmus Andersson of the Calgary Flames is a highly sought-after right-shot defenseman. With Calgary potentially entering a rebuilding phase, Andersson, who can log significant minutes and contribute in all situations, could be a valuable asset for teams preparing for a playoff push. The Vegas Golden Knights were reportedly interested in Andersson.
Jonathan Marchessault could be another player of interest. Matias Maccelli of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who hasn't secured a stable position after being acquired to fill the void left by Mitch Marner, has also garnered interest from other teams.
Teams Adjusting Rosters
Several teams have already made moves to adjust their rosters. The Seattle Kraken traded Mason Marchment to the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Los Angeles Kings sent Phillip Danault back to the Montreal Canadiens. The Philadelphia Flyers acquired Philip Tomasino from the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Minnesota Wild acquired Quinn Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks. The Edmonton Oilers acquired Tristan Jarry and Samuel Poulin from the Pittsburgh Penguins. These early transactions indicate that teams are actively evaluating their needs and exploring opportunities to improve their squads.
As the season progresses, more trade rumors will undoubtedly surface. The 2026 NHL trade deadline on March 6, 2026, will be a crucial date for teams looking to bolster their rosters for the playoffs or begin retooling for the future.
