Trade Winds Picking Up: Panarin, Hamilton, and Faulk Emerge as Key Names Ahead of Deadline
As the NHL trade deadline inches closer, the New York Rangers find themselves at the center of the storm - and it’s not just because they’re in the thick of a playoff race. Artemi Panarin, the team’s leading scorer and one of the league’s most dynamic offensive threats, is reportedly on the block. And if he’s moved, it won’t come cheap.
According to reports, the Rangers are setting the bar high when it comes to trade talks for Panarin, who’s on an expiring deal and holds a full no-move clause. The baseline?
Think back to what the Islanders got for Brock Nelson last year - a first-round pick, a top-tier prospect in Calum Ritchie, and a third-rounder. That’s the kind of return New York is eyeing, and it makes sense.
While Nelson brought value as a natural center, Panarin brings elite scoring and playmaking that few in the league can match. He’s already sitting at 56 points through 51 games this season, and his ability to tilt the ice in his team’s favor is well-documented.
There’s no shortage of interest either. The Anaheim Ducks, Washington Capitals, and Los Angeles Kings are reportedly among the teams kicking the tires on a potential Panarin deal. Each of those teams is in a different phase of contention, but adding a player of Panarin’s caliber could be a game-changer - especially for clubs looking to make a deep run this spring.
Of course, any move involving Panarin comes with complications. His full no-move clause gives him control over where he ends up, and that could limit the Rangers’ options. Still, with the market heating up and teams looking to make bold moves, there’s a very real chance Panarin could be wearing a different sweater by the deadline.
Devils Hit Pause on Hamilton Talks Amid Hughes Injury
Meanwhile, over in New Jersey, the Devils are pumping the brakes on trade discussions involving Dougie Hamilton. The veteran defenseman, who’s long been considered one of the top blueliners potentially available at the deadline, is suddenly in limbo thanks to an untimely injury to Luke Hughes.
Hughes, the promising young rearguard who’s quickly become a key piece of the Devils’ blue line, is dealing with an injury that has clouded New Jersey’s immediate plans. Until they get a clearer picture of Hughes’ status, the Devils are understandably reluctant to move Hamilton - especially with the team still clinging to playoff hopes.
Hamilton, for his part, has put up 17 points in 46 games this season while logging big minutes and anchoring the power play. He’s under contract through the 2027-28 season with a $9 million AAV, so any move involving him would be more than just a rental - it would be a foundational shift for any team acquiring him. But for now, those talks are on ice.
Blues Open for Business, Faulk Drawing Interest
Out west, the St. Louis Blues are shaping up to be sellers at the deadline, and one name that’s drawing attention is veteran defenseman Justin Faulk. At 33, Faulk still has gas in the tank and is playing a significant role for the Blues this season - he’s third on the team in average ice time and has chipped in 24 points through 52 games.
With one year left on his deal at a $6.5 million cap hit, Faulk isn’t just a rental, and that’s reflected in the Blues’ asking price. They’re reportedly looking for a return similar to what the Flames got for Rasmus Andersson - a first-round pick, a conditional second, and veteran defenseman Zach Whitecloud. That’s a hefty package, but for teams looking to shore up their blue line with a proven, playoff-tested presence, Faulk could be worth the price.
The Blues are currently sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, and with their season trending downward, it makes sense to explore moves that could bring in future assets. Faulk may not be the flashiest name on the market, but he’s a reliable, experienced option who could slot into a top-four role on a contender without missing a beat.
What’s Next?
With the trade deadline looming, the market is starting to take shape. Big names like Panarin, Hamilton, and Faulk are in the mix, and the conversations around them are only going to intensify. Whether it’s a blockbuster deal or a strategic depth move, GMs across the league are already working the phones.
Stay tuned - this deadline season is just getting started, and there are some serious difference-makers potentially on the move.