NHL Trade Deadline 2025: Projected Moves and Key Decisions for Every Team

As the NHL trade deadline approaches on March 7, 2025, each team faces critical decisions that could shape their future. From bolstering playoff hopes to rebuilding for upcoming seasons, general managers are strategizing their moves. Below is an overview of a few of the teams projected approaches.

Atlantic Division

Boston Bruins:

[A close-up of Bruins players Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak in action highlighting the game's intensity as Boston tries to bolster their roster. Maddie Meyer/Getty Images.]  

The Bruins aim to enhance their center depth. Potential trade assets include forwards Pavel Zacha or Charlie Coyle, which could be offered to teams like the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for defensive reinforcements.

Toronto Maple Leafs:

[The Maple Leafs' search for defensive reinforcements during a pivotal season. Captured here is John Tavares and Mitch Marner. Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images]

With an eye on a deep playoff run, the Maple Leafs are exploring options to strengthen their defensive lineup. Prospect Easton Cowan has been mentioned as a potential trade piece to acquire experienced defensemen. It’s also important to note that it’s Marner and Tavrares’ contract year, so even though it might be far-fetched, something could potentially change there.

Metropolitan Division

Carolina Hurricanes:

[A compelling image of a Hurricanes player Mikko Rantanen mid-game, representing the team’s efforts to navigate cap space and integrate their newly acquired talent. Mike Stobe/NHLI via Getty Images]

Facing limited cap space, the Hurricanes' management, led by GM Eric Tulsky, is seeking creative solutions to enhance their roster. This may involve strategic trades to balance the team's financial constraints while addressing key positional needs. In a wild trade earlier this season, a three-team trade took place. The Hurricanes acquired star winger Mikko Rantanen from the Colorado Avalanche and veteran forward Taylor Hall from the Chicago Blackhawks. So something to consider is if Rantanen will stay with Carolina because he will be an unrestricted free agent by the end of the season.

Central Division

Winnipeg Jets:

As the Jets evaluate their playoff prospects, they're considering trading prospect Brad Lambert to acquire immediate help, particularly in bolstering their forward lines.

[A moment of Jets action on the ice, emphasizing the team’s need for key roster adjustments as they assess their playoff chances. CANADIAN PRESS/Fred Greenslade]

Pacific Division

Los Angeles Kings:

[A snapshot of a Kings player in motion, showcasing the team’s focus on strengthening their defense for a deep postseason run.AP Photo/Ashley Landis]

In pursuit of solidifying their defense for the postseason, the Kings are contemplating moving prospect Brandt Clarke. This strategy aims to bring in seasoned defensemen to support their playoff ambitions. 

As the deadline nears, the NHL landscape is poised for significant changes. Teams must weigh the risks and rewards of their strategies, balancing immediate goals with future aspirations. The decisions made in the coming days will undoubtedly have lasting impacts on the league's competitive dynamics.