The NHL’s 2025-26 roster freeze will take effect at midnight ET on Saturday, halting any player transactions until it is lifted on December 28. With the freeze looming, the biggest trade has already transpired: Quinn Hughes has moved from the Vancouver Canucks to the Minnesota Wild in a significant deal signaling the Canucks’ intent to rebuild.
As the Canucks embrace this transition, they have communicated their openness to trade, indicating that not only unrestricted free agents are available, but also players such as Marcus Pettersson, Conor Garland, and Drew O’Connor. The team’s willingness to explore trades reflects a broader strategy to rejuvenate their roster, especially considering that some players may prefer to play elsewhere rather than endure a rebuilding phase.
Several players, like Marcus Pettersson and Tyler Myers, hold considerable market value and face crucial decisions regarding their futures, particularly with Vancouver currently carrying a hefty goalie tandem costing $13 million. The fate of their goalies remains uncertain as trade discussions heat up.
The trade landscape features notable potential swaps as teams look to improve their rosters after the freeze. For instance, the Washington Capitals could acquire Ryan O’Reilly from the Nashville Predators, who would receive Hendrix Lapierre and a 2026 first-round pick in return. O’Reilly’s experience and robust defensive skills would bolster Washington’s middle six, offering depth while they address Pierre-Luc Dubois’ absence.
Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils have an eye on Nazem Kadri of the Calgary Flames, whose addition may alleviate some pressure on the Devils’ top lines. The Flames would gain rising stars Dawson Mercer and Ethan Edwards, alongside a 2026 first-round pick. This move would cater to both their immediate and long-term needs, with Kadri enhancing New Jersey’s competitiveness.
The Minnesota Wild are eyeing Nick Schmaltz, potentially trading Yakov Trenin and a 2027 first-round pick. With critical matchups ahead, Schmaltz could give the Wild the depth they need while Trenin offers value to the opposing team.
As for Vancouver, a proposed blockbuster deal could see them acquire Owen Power and Jack Quinn from the Buffalo Sabres. In exchange, the Sabres may obtain Kiefer Sherwood, Conor Garland, and Nils Hoglander. This swap could address the needs of both franchises, with Vancouver getting younger and Buffalo injecting experienced players into their lineup as they aim for a playoff return.
Additionally, the Dallas Stars might seek Alex Tuch from Buffalo, who could strengthen their roster further, while the Bruins may pursue Kiefer Sherwood, who would fit their rugged playoff style. Such moves illustrate the dynamic nature of the league and the strategic shifts teams are willing to make as they evaluate their current standings and future alignments.
As the trade window opens post-freeze, the league is poised for an exciting period of moves that could reshape rosters and influence playoff races in the months ahead.