NHL Trade Deadline 2025: Big Moves and Surprising Deals
The NHL trade deadline is always an exciting time for hockey fans, and this year is no exception. With just hours left before the deadline, teams are making big moves, trying to strengthen their rosters for a deep playoff run or planning for the future by acquiring picks and prospects. Some of the biggest trades have already happened, shaking up the league in ways few expected.
One of the most talked-about trades this season was Mikko Rantanen being sent from the Colorado Avalanche to the Carolina Hurricanes. This was a blockbuster deal, as Rantanen is a two-time 100-point scorer and a major offensive force. In return, the Avalanche received Martin Necas, Jack Drury, and two draft picks. It’s a bold move for Carolina, as they push to become serious contenders.
Another huge trade saw J.T. Miller move from the Vancouver Canucks to the New York Rangers. The Rangers are looking to add depth and scoring power, and Miller’s presence will definitely help them. Vancouver, in return, acquired Filip Chytil and a conditional first-round pick, signaling a bit of a retooling for the Canucks.
Also Read:- Chelsea Edge Past Copenhagen in Conference League Thriller
- Reilly Smith Returns to Vegas in Trade for Brisson and Draft Pick
The Tampa Bay Lightning have also been busy, acquiring Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde from the Seattle Kraken. Tampa Bay, always a team willing to push for another Stanley Cup, gave up multiple draft picks, including two first-rounders, to get these two forwards. Gourde, a key part of their championship runs in 2020 and 2021, returns to Tampa, which will surely excite fans.
Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers have been making significant moves as well. They acquired Seth Jones from the Chicago Blackhawks in a deal that involved young goalie Spencer Knight heading to Chicago. Florida also picked up Nico Sturm and goaltender Vitek Vanecek, signaling that they are serious about their playoff push.
Some teams are also preparing for the future. The Seattle Kraken, currently out of the playoff picture, have traded away key pieces like Brandon Tanev, who was held out of the lineup in anticipation of a deal. The Kraken also sent Bjorkstrand and Gourde to Tampa Bay, collecting valuable draft picks in return.
One of the more sentimental trades saw Reilly Smith return to the Vegas Golden Knights from the Pittsburgh Penguins. Smith was a key part of Vegas’ Stanley Cup win in 2023, and now he’s back where he had his best years. The Golden Knights are hoping he can regain form and contribute in their playoff chase.
The goaltending market has also been active. The Winnipeg Jets and Florida Panthers swapped goalies, with Chris Driedger heading to Winnipeg and Kaapo Kahkonen going to Florida. The Panthers have now made three goalie moves in just a week, showing they are willing to shake things up between the pipes.
With the deadline closing in, more deals could still happen. Contenders are looking for that final piece, while struggling teams are collecting assets for the future. The NHL trade deadline is always unpredictable, and this year’s action is proving why it’s one of the most exciting times of the season. Keep an eye out—things are only going to get more interesting!
Read More:
0 Comments