Wild Trade Tiers: Predicting This Offseason's Biggest Moves Beyond Rossi

Shawn

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Post on Jun 20, 2025

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Wild Trade Tiers: Predicting This Offseason's Biggest Moves Beyond Rossi

The NHL offseason is officially underway, and while the blockbuster trade of Alex Rossi to the Carolina Hurricanes dominated headlines, the rumor mill is churning with speculation about who might be next. This year promises a flurry of activity, with teams looking to capitalize on opportunities and reshape their rosters for the upcoming season. Forget the predictable – let's dive deep into the less obvious, yet potentially earth-shattering moves that could redefine the league's landscape.

Tier 1: The Untouchables (But Maybe Not?)

While some stars seem firmly entrenched with their teams, the NHL's unpredictable nature means even the seemingly "untouchable" players could find themselves on the move. Think established stars nearing the end of their contracts or those whose teams are undergoing significant roster overhauls. This tier includes players like:

• Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs): Matthews' contract situation and Toronto's consistent playoff disappointments have fueled persistent trade rumors. While a move seems unlikely, the possibility, however remote, cannot be ignored. A contending team desperate for a top-line center could make a daring offer.

• Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers): Though McDavid is the Oilers' franchise cornerstone, a prolonged playoff drought coupled with potential internal conflicts could theoretically lead to unexpected change. However, this scenario is highly improbable.

• Nathan MacKinnon (Colorado Avalanche): The Avalanche's recent injury woes highlight the volatility of relying on aging stars. While unlikely, a rebuilding strategy could see MacKinnon moved for a haul of prospects and picks.

Tier 2: The Highly Likely Movers

This tier represents players with a significant chance of being traded. These are players whose teams might be looking to rebuild or retool, or players who are simply looking for a change of scenery. Examples include:

• Patrick Kane (Chicago Blackhawks): Kane's future is uncertain after the Blackhawks' rebuild solidified. He's a highly sought-after veteran who could bolster a contender's offense significantly.

• Jonathan Toews (Chicago Blackhawks): Similar to Kane, Toews' future in Chicago is far from certain. His leadership and experience would be valuable assets for any team looking to compete for a Stanley Cup.

• Mathew Barzal (New York Islanders): Barzal's contract situation and the Islanders' need to improve make him a prime candidate for a trade. His offensive talents could be a game-changer for many teams.

Tier 3: The Wild Cards

This is where things get interesting. These are players who are less likely to be traded, but whose situations are fluid enough to make a move a possibility. This tier is characterized by unexpected circumstances and potential team shakeups. Keep an eye on:

• Elias Lindholm (Calgary Flames): A change in coaching staff or a continued struggle in Calgary could push Lindholm towards a new team.

• Mika Zibanejad (New York Rangers): While highly valued in New York, a shift in team strategy or the need to free up cap space could force the Rangers to consider a deal.

Beyond the Big Names:

Remember that beyond the star players, numerous depth players and promising prospects will also be involved in trades this offseason. Teams will be looking to improve their roster depth and acquire assets for future seasons. Keep an eye on emerging talents and undervalued players who could be key pieces in several trades.

Conclusion:

This offseason promises to be one of the most exciting in recent NHL history. While Rossi's trade set the stage, the potential for more significant moves—perhaps even surpassing it—remains high. The teams and players mentioned above represent only a fraction of the potential action. Staying informed about upcoming free agency, the NHL draft, and team strategies will be crucial for anyone seeking to fully understand how this offseason will reshape the NHL landscape. What other unexpected trades do you predict? Share your thoughts in the comments below!