The NHL's upcoming offseason promises to be a fascinating one, with several teams poised to make significant moves. Here's a breakdown of eight teams that could be aggressive on the trade market this summer, along with my personal commentary and analysis.
Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens are a team on the rise, but they still have areas for improvement. Their second-line center position is a concern, with Jake Evans as their primary option. Adding a bona fide center would alleviate pressure on Nick Suzuki and help Ivan Demidov reach his full potential. Additionally, the team could use another right-shot defenseman, as Noah Dobson and Alexandre Carrier are the only NHL right-handed defensemen under contract for next season.
With roughly $11 million in projected cap room and the potential to create more by trading Brendan Gallagher and Sam Montembeault, the Canadiens have the flexibility to make significant moves. Their top-10 prospect pool and ownership of all first- and second-round picks further strengthen their position. The Canadiens are in a strong position to make a big-game trade if the right difference-maker becomes available.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets are in a similar situation to the Anaheim Ducks last season. They have high-end talent, but a six-year playoff drought has created urgency. Columbus aims to make a few splashes, similar to the Ducks' successful moves last summer. They need a big acquisition or two and internal growth from youngsters like Adam Fantilli.
The future of Zach Werenski is a significant factor. As a Norris Trophy winner with two years remaining on his contract, he has a decision to make next summer. The Blue Jackets have $35 million in projected cap space and 15 NHL players under contract, with a focus on re-signing RFAs. They should aim to land an impact top-six winger and could offload Elvis Merzlikins to create more cap room.
Minnesota Wild
The Wild are desperate for an impact top-six center, and their division rivals make this a challenging task. With Joel Eriksson Ek injured, they relied on Ryan Hartman and Michael McCarron, which isn't a sustainable solution. Bill Guerin, a bold general manager, won't sit on his hands this summer. While they may not have the star potential centerpiece, they have assets like Danila Yurov and Charlie Stramel that could be traded.
Creating more cap room is a priority, but the Wild have straightforward ways to do so. They can shift trade protection on Hartman's contract and have quality but pricey bottom-six forwards without trade protection. The Wild's future looks promising with their first-round picks in 2027 and 2028.
Seattle Kraken
The Kraken's future is uncertain, and they should avoid reckless win-now moves. However, their CEO's promise of a prolific offseason and the pressure to return to the playoffs before the NBA expansion could motivate them. Seattle has made aggressive moves in recent summers and pursued Artemi Panarin. With nearly $30 million in cap space and a strong prospect pool, they have the resources to make a bold pitch.
The Kraken could leverage Shane Wright as an asset for an offensive game-breaker. They need elite talent up front and have the means to make a bold move, but it will require the right target and star to want to play in Seattle.
Carolina Hurricanes
The Hurricanes are one of the few established Cup contenders with cap space and trade assets. They have approximately $12 million in cap space and a nearly full roster under contract. They could ship out Jesperi Kotkaniemi, who is expected to be a healthy scratch, to improve their cap situation. Carolina has tremendous cost certainty with long-term, team-friendly contracts.
The Hurricanes have all first-round picks and an extra one in 2028, along with a respectable prospect pool. They have the opportunity to take a bold swing if the right opportunity arises, as they did with Nikolaj Ehlers and Miller last summer. GM Eric Tulsky may keep his powder dry, but the Hurricanes are a team to watch.
San Jose Sharks
The Sharks are not in a hurry to rebuild, but they need to address their blue line. They have only two NHL defensemen under contract for next season and need to add top-four defensemen. Young defensemen with upside like Michael Kesselring and Simon Nemec could be targets. The Sharks' decision with the No. 2 pick will also impact their ability to acquire a top-flight defenseman.
With over $40 million in projected cap room, the Sharks have the financial flexibility to make significant moves. They need to address their blue line and add top-nine forward talent.
Boston Bruins
The Bruins are in a bind, caught between contending and rebuilding. They have the ambition to make a splash, with President Cam Neely prioritizing aggression. The team has trade assets, including first- and second-round picks, and cap space. They need a true No. 1 center and another top-four right-shot defender.
The Bruins have the pieces to make a significant move, but the right target must come along. GM Chris Drury's underwhelming track record and the pressure to capitalize on the primes of David Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy add to the urgency.
New York Rangers
The Rangers' focus on a quick turnaround rather than a full rebuild is intriguing. GM Chris Drury's letter to fans and reports suggest he wants to be active this summer. With nearly $30 million in cap space and a strong prospect pool, they have the means to make a big move.
The Rangers could target young, NHL-ready contributors and have trade chips like Vincent Trocheck and Braden Schneider. They have the potential to add young, impact players without compromising their long-term future, but Drury's self-interest and the pressure to make moves add complexity to the situation.
