With the NHL's Olympic roster freeze approaching on Wednesday, February 4th, at 3 p.m. ET, trade rumors are swirling around several prominent players and teams. Here's a breakdown of some of the key situations to watch.
Edmonton Oilers: The Oilers are reportedly interested in acquiring forward Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers. According to insider Dave Pagnotta, Panarin would consider waiving his no-move clause to join Edmonton as a rental player if his contract extension talks with the Rangers stall. The Oilers' status as a Stanley Cup contender makes them an appealing destination for Panarin. To make the deal work, the Rangers would likely need to retain 50% of Panarin’s $11.6 million cap hit, and the Oilers would have to send contracts back to New York. A potential trade package could resemble the Brock Nelson deal from the New York Islanders to the Colorado Avalanche, which included a first and third-round pick, prospect Cal Ritchie, and a contract dump of Oliver Kylington. The Oilers might offer their 2027 first-round pick, their 2026 second-round pick, and a 2028 third-round pick (owned by the Blues), along with a prospect, to acquire Panarin and have the Rangers take back Andrew Mangiapane.
The Oilers are also rumored to be interested in Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine. A potential swap involving Laine for Oilers forward Andrew Mangiapane has been suggested. However, both players have no-trade clauses, with Laine having a ten-team no-trade list. Laine carries a $8.70 million cap hit, while Mangiapane's is $3.60 million.
Artemi Panarin: The New York Rangers' star winger is at the center of trade speculation. With Panarin seeking a $50 million extension, some teams may be hesitant to meet his demands, potentially complicating a trade. Tampa Bay has emerged as a possible suitor, while other teams have dropped out due to his high asking price. Elliotte Friedman reported there's a 75% chance Panarin will be moved before the Olympic roster freeze.
Montreal Canadiens: The Canadiens are reportedly looking to trade forward Patrik Laine, who is currently on injured reserve and is expected to return after the Olympic break. Laine has struggled in Montreal, and a change of scenery could benefit him. A Laine-for-Mangiapane swap with the Oilers has been rumored. Montreal may be willing to retain a portion of Laine's salary to facilitate a trade. The Canadiens have placed Sammy Blais on waivers.
Toronto Maple Leafs: With three capable NHL goalies on their roster, the Maple Leafs are considering trading one of them. While Anthony Stolarz was initially the prime candidate, TSN's Bryan Hayes suggested that Joseph Woll should also be on the table for the right return. Woll has a 13-7-4 record with a 2.87 goals-against average and .910 save percentage this season. However, trading Woll would be risky, as neither Stolarz nor Dennis Hildeby has proven capable of handling a starter's workload over a full season. Other reports suggest Dennis Hildeby could be the goalie moved.
Patrik Laine: The Canadiens forward's name has surfaced in trade discussions, particularly in connection to the Edmonton Oilers. Laine, who was drafted second overall in 2016, has not lived up to expectations in Montreal, and the Canadiens may be looking to move his $8.7 million cap hit. A potential trade with Edmonton involving Andrew Mangiapane has been mentioned.