2026 NHL Trade Deadline: A Fantastical Perspective
The 2026 NHL Trade Deadline is on the horizon, bringing with it expectations and shifts in team rosters. Teams will evaluate their standings as they consider trades for players under contract and potential free agents. Here’s a look at notable players and their current contracts leading up to this pivotal moment.
Notable Players Under Contract
- Jason Robertson (DAL) – Potential RFA in 2026.
- Elias Pettersson (VAN) – Under contract until 2031-32; not part of a contending team.
- Vincent Trocheck (NYR) – Under contract until 2028-29; with a non-contending team.
- Steven Stamkos (NSH) – Under contract until 2027-28; team currently outside playoff contention.
- Ryan O’Reilly (NSH) – Under contract until 2026-27; non-contending team.
- Jordan Kyrou (STL) – Under contract until 2030-31; on a non-contending team.
- Nazem Kadri (CGY) – Under contract until 2028-29; part of a non-contending team.
- Brock Boeser (VAN) – Under contract until 2031-32; returning from injury.
- Jake DeBrusk (VAN) – Under contract until 2030-31; on a non-contending team.
- Blake Coleman (CGY) – Under contract until 2026-27; on a non-contending team.
- Jonathan Marchessault (NSH) – Under contract until 2028-29; team outside playoff picture.
- Viktor Arvidsson (BOS) – Potential UFA in 2026.
- Jordan Eberle (SEA) – Potential UFA in 2026.
- Brayden Schenn (STL) – Under contract until 2027-28; on a non-contending team.
- Jaden Schwartz (SEA) – Potential UFA in 2026.
- Bobby McMann (TOR) – Potential UFA in 2026; team currently outside the playoff picture.
Injured Players
Key injuries can impact player trades significantly. A notable injury includes:
- Patrik Laine (F, MTL) – Currently listed as injured.
As the trade deadline approaches, teams will be closely monitoring these players. Trades can reshape rosters, especially for those in non-contending positions, making it crucial for teams to act swiftly. The dynamics of the league are ever-changing, and the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline promises to bring excitement and significant shifts in team strategies.
