NHL Trade Deadline Buzz: Jets Eye Panarin, Kadri Open to Move, Leafs Face Key Decisions
With the NHL trade deadline creeping closer and the Olympic roster freeze just days away, the rumor mill is starting to hum. Several big names are surfacing in talks that could reshape the playoff picture - and maybe even shift the long-term direction of a few franchises. Let’s break down the latest developments around the league, from Winnipeg’s bold ambitions to Toronto’s roster questions and Calgary’s potential veteran sell-off.
Winnipeg Jets Exploring Big Swing - Panarin in Play?
The Winnipeg Jets are making noise, and not just on the ice. Trade chatter around defenseman Logan Stanley has picked up steam, with multiple reports suggesting his time in Winnipeg could be winding down. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Here’s where things get interesting: the Jets are reportedly one of the teams sniffing around Artemi Panarin. Yes, that Artemi Panarin - elite winger, dynamic playmaker, and the kind of player who can tilt a playoff series on his own.
If Winnipeg is truly in the mix, it signals a willingness to go big. Panarin is reportedly looking for a long-term extension in the ballpark of $10 million annually over four or five years.
That’s a steep price, especially with other teams hesitant to commit to that kind of term. But if the Jets are willing to step up where others won’t, they could vault themselves into serious contender status.
A potential package involving Stanley, picks, and prospects would be no small deal. It’s the kind of move that doesn’t just tweak a roster - it defines an era.
Winnipeg has been a steady team this season, but adding a player like Panarin could push them into another tier entirely. That said, it’s a calculated risk.
Are they ready to go all-in?
Kadri Open to Move as Flames Shift to Seller Mode
Nazem Kadri’s time in Calgary may be running short. With the Flames trending toward a seller’s mindset ahead of the Olympic freeze and trade deadline, Kadri has reportedly shown a willingness to waive his no-trade clause.
That’s a big development. Kadri, under contract through the 2028-29 season, hasn’t quite replicated the offensive highs he hit earlier in his career, but he remains a respected veteran with playoff pedigree. And in a market where contenders are scrambling for middle-six centers who can play with an edge and contribute on both ends, Kadri’s name carries weight.
Among the teams showing interest: the Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, Minnesota Wild, and Dallas Stars. If Calgary is serious about a retool - or even a full reset - moving Kadri could be one of the headline moves of the deadline. There’s even talk that a deal could come together before the February 4 Olympic freeze.
Matthews Trade Talk Swirls - But Don’t Bet on It
Auston Matthews’ name has popped up in trade speculation as the Maple Leafs stumble through a rocky stretch, but let’s pump the brakes. Despite Toronto’s struggles, there’s no real indication that Matthews is looking for the exit.
Insiders have been quick to shut down the idea. Chris Johnston noted he “bets” Matthews wants to stay in Toronto, and everything coming out of the Leafs’ camp suggests the star center is locked in on helping the team win - not orchestrating a departure.
Matthews himself has kept the focus on the ice, deflecting questions about the deadline and emphasizing that management will handle the roster while the players focus on the next game.
Behind the scenes, dialogue between Matthews’ camp and the Leafs remains active, and there’s no sense of urgency or concern. The bigger question for Toronto isn’t whether Matthews wants out - it’s whether the front office can make the kind of moves that convince him to stay long-term and give this team a real shot.
Bobby McMann Drawing Interest as Leafs Gauge Market
While Matthews isn’t going anywhere, another Leaf could be on the move. Bobby McMann has quietly become a name to watch, with multiple teams - including the Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche - showing interest.
McMann isn’t a household name, but he’s the kind of player playoff teams love: affordable, versatile, and capable of slotting into a top-nine role. Elliotte Friedman even called him a “top-nine guy all day,” which speaks volumes about how he’s viewed around the league.
What would it take to land him? The rumored price is a second-round pick plus a prospect - not cheap, but not outrageous either for a team looking to bolster its depth ahead of a playoff run.
Nick Kypreos reported that the Leafs and Oilers have had discussions, and Toronto GM Brad Treliving is reportedly burning up the phones during the team’s road trip. If the Leafs decide to make moves before the Olympic break, McMann could be one of the first dominos to fall.
Final Thoughts
With the deadline approaching and the Olympic freeze looming, teams are starting to show their hands. The Jets might be ready to swing big with Panarin.
The Flames are listening on Kadri. The Leafs are trying to thread the needle between competing now and planning for the future.
There’s still time for the market to shift, but one thing’s clear: the next week could go a long way in shaping the playoff landscape - and maybe a few franchises’ futures, too.