Even with the NHL on pause for the Olympic break, the trade winds around the league haven’t slowed down one bit. Teams are using this downtime to position themselves for the stretch run, and we’re already seeing the early signs of some potentially major moves coming down the pipeline.
Let’s break down three key storylines that are heating up: the Carolina Hurricanes eyeing a blockbuster, the Columbus Blue Jackets locking in their core, and a surprising connection between Morgan Rielly and the San Jose Sharks.
Hurricanes Eyeing a Deadline Splash
The Carolina Hurricanes have never been shy about making bold moves, and based on recent reports, they might be gearing up for another big one ahead of the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline.
According to The Athletic’s Jonas Siegel, Carolina is expected to be aggressive - and one name that’s popped up on their radar is Robert Thomas. That’s a significant target, and it makes sense. Thomas is a dynamic playmaker with elite vision and a strong two-way game - exactly the kind of center who fits into Rod Brind’Amour’s fast-paced, structured system.
If Carolina were to land Thomas, it could allow top prospect Logan Stankoven to shift to the wing, giving the Canes two legitimate scoring lines with high-end talent down the middle. That kind of depth is a game-changer in the playoffs.
GM Eric Tulsky has shown he’s willing to be bold when the right opportunity comes along. And with the Hurricanes right in the thick of the Eastern Conference race, this could be the kind of swing-for-the-fences move that pushes them over the top.
Blue Jackets Locking In Their Core?
Over in Columbus, it sounds like the front office is leaning toward stability rather than a sell-off. According to a report from RG Media, the Blue Jackets are making progress on contract extensions for three key unrestricted free agents: Boone Jenner, Mason Marchment, and Charlie Coyle.
If those deals get done, it would effectively take all three off the trade board - and send a clear message that GM Don Waddell believes in this group’s playoff potential.
A source told RG that talks are expected to pick up as early as next week. And with the team playing inspired hockey under head coach Rick Bowness, the chatter around moving any of these veterans has quieted significantly.
The message? Columbus isn’t just trying to sneak into the playoffs - they’re looking to make noise once they get there. Locking in Jenner, Marchment, and Coyle would be a strong vote of confidence in the locker room and a sign that the Blue Jackets are shifting from sellers to buyers as the deadline approaches.
Morgan Rielly Drawing Interest from San Jose
One of the more intriguing rumors floating around is the potential connection between Morgan Rielly and the San Jose Sharks.
According to a recent report, the Sharks have formally expressed interest in the veteran Maple Leafs defenseman. While no names have been exchanged and Rielly hasn’t been approached about a move yet, the dialogue is reportedly open - and in the NHL, that’s often how things start.
For San Jose, this would be a move aimed at stabilizing a blue line that’s in need of experience and puck-moving ability. Rielly, who’s under contract for four more seasons, still has plenty to offer as an offensive-minded defenseman who can log big minutes.
From Toronto’s perspective, this could be less about the return and more about clearing cap space. If that’s the case, the Sharks might be able to acquire Rielly without giving up a premium asset - a rare opportunity in today’s trade market.
It’s still early, and the situation remains fluid, but this is one to keep an eye on as the deadline nears.
What’s Next?
With the Olympic break giving teams a rare moment to reset, front offices across the league are laying the groundwork for what could be a wild few weeks leading up to the March 6 trade deadline. Whether it’s Carolina swinging big, Columbus doubling down on their core, or San Jose making a surprise play for a top-pairing defenseman, the pieces are starting to move.
And once the puck drops again, don’t be surprised if the action off the ice heats up just as fast as it does on it.