As we inch closer to the Olympic break, the NHL trade winds are beginning to swirl - and for a handful of teams, they're blowing with urgency. Injuries, underperformance, and playoff aspirations are creating pressure points across the league, and the result could be a flurry of movement as we approach the March 6 deadline.
Let’s break down where things stand in Edmonton, Toronto, and Winnipeg - three teams with very different needs but one common theme: something’s got to give.
Oilers Hunting for a Top-Nine Boost
In Edmonton, the mission is clear: get Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl some help up front. General Manager Stan Bowman is focused on adding a top-nine forward - and whether that’s a center or a winger doesn’t seem to matter much, thanks to Ryan Nugent-Hopkins’ versatility. He can slot in on McDavid’s wing or drop down to center the third line, giving the Oilers some flexibility as they search for the right fit.
There’s no deal on the table just yet, but Bowman is keeping a close eye on the market. Names like Vincent Trocheck, Alex Tuch, Boone Jenner, Conor Garland, Jake DeBrusk, and Michael Bunting have all surfaced as potential targets. These are players who bring different skill sets - some with grit, others with scoring touch - but all could slide into Edmonton’s top nine and provide the depth this team has been missing.
The Oilers aren’t rushing. With the market still developing and more names likely to become available in the coming weeks, Bowman is playing the long game. But make no mistake - they’re preparing to strike when the right opportunity presents itself.
Maple Leafs’ Blue Line in Crisis Mode
Toronto’s defense was already a concern heading into the new year. Now, with Chris Tanev out and both Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Brandon Carlo potentially sidelined, it’s become a full-blown crisis. GM Brad Treliving was already looking to shore up the blue line - now, it’s a necessity.
Luke Schenn has emerged as a name of interest, and he’d bring a physical, stay-at-home presence that the Leafs could use, especially in a playoff setting. There’s also the intriguing possibility of Dougie Hamilton.
While his contract creates some serious cap gymnastics, he reportedly has Toronto on his list of approved trade destinations. That doesn’t make a deal likely - but it does keep the door open.
Simon Benoit was also mentioned as a potential trade chip, but with the current injury situation, the Leafs can’t afford to move him unless reinforcements arrive first. Toronto’s in a tough spot - they need to add, but they also need healthy bodies just to tread water.
Jets at a Crossroads
No team has fallen harder from last year’s heights than the Winnipeg Jets. After capturing the Presidents’ Trophy, they now find themselves tied for second-to-last in the league with just 46 points. So what’s next?
Don’t expect a full teardown, but Winnipeg is likely to make some surgical moves. Pending unrestricted free agents like Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn (yes, the same Schenn Toronto is eyeing) are logical trade candidates. Both could draw interest from contenders looking for depth and experience on the back end.
Then there’s Jonathan Toews. His situation is more complicated - he has a full no-movement clause, and any trade would require his sign-off. There’s been chatter about a possible fit in Edmonton, but that hinges entirely on whether Toews wants to chase a fourth Stanley Cup.
Interestingly, the Jets aren’t just looking to sell. According to insider reports, they’re also exploring the market for a second-line center - a sign that they’re not ready to wave the white flag just yet.
Teams have been asking about Cole Perfetti, a talented young forward who’s had a tough go this season. Winnipeg would be selling low, but if they’re serious about retooling on the fly, he could be part of a bigger move.
What’s Next?
With the Olympic break looming and the trade deadline just over a month away, the pressure is mounting. For teams like Edmonton, Toronto, and Winnipeg, the coming weeks will be pivotal. Whether it's adding depth, shoring up injuries, or retooling for the future, the decisions made now could define the rest of the season - and beyond.
The market’s heating up. Buckle up.