As the 2026 NHL trade deadline approaches, several players have emerged as potential trade targets for teams looking to bolster their rosters for a playoff push or to rebuild for the future. The trade market has already seen some activity with deals involving Mason Marchment, Phillip Danault, and Quinn Hughes. These early moves indicate that teams are actively evaluating their positions and are willing to make significant decisions.

Forwards

• Matias Maccelli (Toronto Maple Leafs): Acquired to offset the loss of Mitch Marner, Maccelli hasn't found a stable role with the Maple Leafs. After being a healthy scratch, other teams are showing interest, with the Boston Bruins reportedly looking for a scoring winger. Maccelli could be a buy-low candidate if Toronto decides to move on.
• Jonathan Marchessault (Nashville Predators): Marchessault's name is expected to surface in trade discussions. With a no-movement clause (NMC) in his contract, his preferences will play a key role; he reportedly favors a move to the Montreal Canadiens.
• Artemi Panarin (New York Rangers): The fit between Panarin and the Rangers may no longer make sense long-term. If the Rangers miss the playoffs, they could move Panarin as a rental for draft picks or prospects.
• Rickard Rakell (Pittsburgh Penguins): Rakell's trade value is high after a strong 2024-25 season. If the Penguins don't move him before the season, trade speculation will likely continue.

Defensemen

• Rasmus Andersson (Calgary Flames): Andersson is a prime trade candidate, especially if the Flames decide to sell. As a right-shot defenseman who can play significant minutes in all situations, he holds considerable value for teams seeking to strengthen their blue line.
• Dougie Hamilton (New Jersey Devils): The Devils may need to create cap space, and Hamilton could be on the move. However, finding a team to take on his $9 million salary and navigating his no-trade list could be challenging.
• Morgan Rielly (Toronto Maple Leafs): If the Maple Leafs decide to reshuffle their roster, Rielly could become a valuable trade chip. His experience and ability to play heavy minutes make him an attractive option for other teams.

Goaltenders

• Marc-Andre Fleury (Unsigned): Although not currently on an NHL team, Fleury is rumored to be considering a comeback. Several teams have reportedly reached out to gauge his interest.

Other Considerations

Several factors are contributing to the early trade discussions. The NHL's roster freeze has ended, opening the door for trades and waiver activity. Also, many teams are still in contention for playoff spots, which could influence their decisions to buy or sell at the deadline. Cap space remains a crucial asset, and teams aren't as patient as they once were, leading to more active trade talks. Speculation surrounding players like Auston Matthews in Toronto has added an element of uncertainty to the market.

As the trade deadline draws closer, more names will likely emerge, and the landscape could shift rapidly. General managers will be working to assess their teams' needs and identify potential targets to improve their chances of success.