2025 NHL Trade Deadline: Potential Deals

The 2025 NHL trade deadline is today at 3 pm Eastern time, and the phone lines are burning up, from New York to San Jose. Draft Nation looks closely at some of the biggest storylines and potential trades to watch as the deadline approaches:

Edmonton Oilers: All-In on a Stanley Cup Run?

The Oilers have been dominant this season, with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the charge. However, goaltending remains a question mark, and depth scoring is a concern.

One potential trade target could be Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson. The veteran netminder has been linked to trade rumors for a couple of seasons, and with the Ducks rebuilding, they may be willing to retain salary to facilitate a deal.

Another option for Edmonton is adding a reliable middle-six forward. One name Draft Nation continues to hear in trade circles is Philadelphia’s Scott Laughton, who could be an ideal fit. With limited cap space, GM Ken Holland may need to get creative with salary retention or a three-team trade.

Toronto Maple Leafs: Searching for Defensive Help The Maple Leafs’ offensive firepower is undeniable, but their blue line remains a concern, especially with injuries plaguing their top defenders. Islanders’ defenseman Scott Mayfield has been rumored to be a target for the Leafs. Mayfield has a no-trade clause in his cap-friendly $3.5 million contract and if the Isles get enough return, this move could be consummated before this afternoon.

Which Teams Will Sell?

The Chicago Blackhawks, San Jose Sharks, and Columbus Blue Jackets are among the teams likely to be big sellers at the deadline. Chicago moved big defenseman Seth Jones to the Florida Panthers earlier in the week and may continue to move players (and contracts) for the right return as the deadline draws nearer.

The Sharks, in full rebuild mode, could trade forward Luke Kunin by 3 pm. Kunin was held out of the Sharks last game for trade purposes, and Draft Nation feels the NHL community may learn early on Friday where his new destination may lie.

Finally, after Columbus GM Don Waddell signed winger Mathieu Olivier to a long-term deal, he’s left with a few decisions to make with his emerging team. Will he sell and disrupt the locker room, or will he stand pat?

Surprise Blockbuster?

Every trade deadline has an unexpected move that shakes up the league. Could the Pittsburgh Penguins move defenseman Erik Karlsson? Will the Bruins part ways with Brad Marchand? The next few hours will be filled with speculation and anticipation.

With so many teams in the mix for the playoffs, the 2025 NHL trade deadline is sure to feature plenty of drama. Whether it’s contenders making their final push or rebuilding teams stocking up on assets, fans can expect an exciting flurry of moves before the clock hits zero.