NHL Trade Deadline Watch: Blues, Rangers, and Canucks Among the Teams Poised to Sell
As the NHL trade deadline inches closer, the rumor mill is heating up-and three teams in particular are drawing plenty of attention: the St. Louis Blues, New York Rangers, and Vancouver Canucks. All three are in varying stages of retooling or reshaping their rosters, and each could play a significant role in how the deadline shakes out.
Let’s break down where things stand with each team and which names could be on the move.
St. Louis Blues: Open for Business
If there’s one team that appears ready to make moves, it’s the St. Louis Blues. While they’ve been trying to get ahead of the market, they haven’t quite been able to pull the trigger on the bigger deals-yet.
The Blues seem willing to listen on just about anyone, and that flexibility could make them one of the more active sellers. One name generating increased attention is veteran defenseman Justin Faulk. Since the Rasmus Andersson trade, Faulk’s value has quietly climbed, especially among teams still hunting for help on the right side of their blue line.
The Boston Bruins were in on Andersson, so it’s possible they pivot toward Faulk. But don’t count out the Dallas Stars either. They’ve been consistent in recent years about shoring up the right side of their defense, and Faulk could be a strong fit if the price is right.
New York Rangers: Listening Closely
The Rangers might not be full-on sellers, but they’re definitely working the phones. Alongside key names like Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck, who are unlikely to move, the team is fielding interest in several other players.
One name that keeps popping up is Braden Schneider. He’s drawn interest from multiple teams, with the San Jose Sharks among those keeping close tabs. The Rangers have already moved Carson Soucy, and with Schneider on the radar, it’s clear they’re willing to consider offers if the return helps them both now and in the future.
New York isn’t looking to blow things up, but they are exploring ways to retool on the fly-and that includes being open to discussions on a handful of roster pieces.
Vancouver Canucks: Kane Talks Heating Up
The Canucks are in the middle of one of the more intriguing trade scenarios this deadline season, largely due to the situation surrounding Evander Kane. The buzz is real, and the Canucks are reportedly willing to retain salary in a deal-something that could make Kane more appealing to teams looking for scoring punch without the full cap hit.
But Vancouver’s activity doesn’t stop there. They’re listening on a wide range of players, and the list of potential trade chips is long.
Conor Garland is one of the more notable names, especially since his no-trade clause kicks in on July 1st. That adds urgency to any potential deal involving him.
Jake DeBrusk and Drew O’Connor are also names to watch. DeBrusk currently holds both no-trade and no-movement clauses, while O’Connor still has a year left on his deal.
Teddy Blueger is another name in the mix, and while players like Tyler Myers, Marcus Pettersson, and Filip Hronek aren't expected to move, the Canucks are clearly open to conversations on just about everyone else-Brock Boeser included, though the likelihood of his departure seems lower at this point.
What’s Next?
With the trade deadline looming, these three teams are shaping up to be key players in the coming weeks. Whether it’s the Blues’ willingness to deal, the Rangers’ strategic listening, or the Canucks’ flexibility with contracts and cap space, each franchise brings a different flavor to the table.
And while not every name mentioned will end up on the move, the groundwork is being laid. The phones are ringing, the scouts are watching, and the front offices are weighing offers. The question now is: who’s ready to pull the trigger-and who’s just bluffing?
Stay tuned. The NHL trade deadline always delivers surprises, and this year, it looks like St. Louis, New York, and Vancouver could be right in the middle of the action.