6 Blockbuster NHL Trades We’re Expecting Any Minute Now

As the NHL is just hours away from the Entry Draft and free agency is around the corner, it’s been a hectic week. Big names have moved. Jordan Kyrou, Alex Tuch, Bowen Byram, Brady Tkachuk, Joseph Woll, Jack Drury, Simon Nemec, and others. And, we haven’t even scratched the surface of the deals we could see in the next 48 hours.

Several high-profile trade situations are beginning to take shape. Teams are actively working the phones, and a number of big names could be on the move sooner rather than later. Here are six blockbusters we’re waiting for.

---

Darnell Nurse – Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers remain deep in trade discussions involving Darnell Nurse, though nothing appears imminent. The veteran defenseman has reportedly submitted a short list of preferred destinations, which has complicated the process due to his $9.25 million-per-season contract. Still, it is believed there’s a market out there for him.

Among the teams believed to be in the mix are the Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Boston Bruins. Philadelphia, in particular, stands out due to Nurse’s personal connection through his uncle, Donovan McNabb.

Interestingly, new associate coach D.J. Smith recently spoke glowingly about Nurse’s potential in a more aggressive system, raising some questions about whether a return to Edmonton is still possible. Still, the expectation around the league is that the Oilers will continue exploring trade options.

Morgan Rielly – Toronto Maple Leafs

Morgan Rielly’s situation in Toronto appears slightly further along, with insiders suggesting he could be moved before Nurse. While there is no deal close, the market is beginning to take shape.

Rielly is believed to prefer a move to a Western Conference team and has submitted a list of four teams he’d be willing to join. There is no official confirmation of who is on that list, but the San Jose Sharks and Anaheim Ducks are among the clubs linked to him. Both teams offer logical fits, with San Jose needing veteran stability on the blue line and Anaheim potentially facing turnover on defense this offseason.

If a deal isn’t completed in the near future, attention will shift to whether Rielly is willing to expand his list of acceptable destinations.

Alexander Nikishin – Carolina Hurricanes

Alexander Nikishin has quickly become one of the most intriguing names on the trade market. Fresh off a Stanley Cup win with the Carolina Hurricanes, the 24-year-old defenseman is now the subject of significant interest from around the league. Reports suggest as many as six teams are monitoring the situation closely.

A pending restricted free agent, Nikishin’s contract demands appear to be the driving force behind the trade speculation. Unlike some of his teammates who have signed team-friendly deals, he is not expected to take a discount on a long-term contract. Carolina has historically avoided overpaying for potential, which could lead to a move if negotiations stall. With his upside, a bidding war is a real possibility.

@CanesPowerPlay writes, “That’s now two updates in the last 24 hours that suggest something is going on with Alexander Nikishin. At first, I thought Eric Tulsky was just seeing what was out there, but after hearing more about the contract situation, I’m starting to think this could be further along than it seemed. It feels like something might be close to happening, so this is definitely a situation worth watching.”

Connor Hellebuyck – Winnipeg Jets

Speculation continues to build around Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, even though the team is not actively shopping him. The three-time Vezina Trophy winner has drawn interest from several contenders, including the Florida Panthers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Buffalo Sabres. He’s reportedly open to a change, and there are two questions: does a team have the assets needed to trade for him, and are the Jets really going to do this?

Florida remains particularly intriguing as it assesses its long-term goaltending situation. They need a goalie with no one else signed, but they just sent a ton of draft picks to Ottawa for Brady Tkachuk. Meanwhile, Buffalo could emerge as a dark horse with its strong prospect pool and valuable draft assets. They now have the No. 4 overall pick in this year’s draft after the Bowen Byram trade.

Could Toronto get in on this? David Pagnotta thinks they are cooking up something huge. The Edmonton Oilers need a goalie badly, but it’s unclear if Hellebuyck would see them as an option. Although there’s no indication a trade is close, teams continue to check in with Winnipeg.

Jason Robertson – Dallas Stars

Jason Robertson’s contract situation with the Dallas Stars is another storyline gaining traction. The restricted free agent winger is reportedly seeking a significant long-term deal, potentially north of $14 million annually. Some say the ask could be as high as $15 million per season.

Negotiations have not yet resulted in an agreement, and there is growing chatter that other teams may pursue aggressive offer sheets. Dallas is believed to be asking for a massive return in any trade discussions, comparable to blockbuster packages seen in recent years. Specifically, the Mikko Rantanen trade is a comparable.

With teams willing to pay a premium for elite scoring talent, Robertson’s situation could escalate quickly. Whether it ends in a new deal or a shocking move, this is one to watch closely.

Dylan Larkin – Detroit Red Wings

The situation surrounding Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin remains fluid following reports of a trade request earlier this month. While there has been no official confirmation from the team, multiple clubs are believed to have expressed interest.

Larkin initially provided a short list of teams he would consider, but it’s unclear if that stance has changed. The Dallas Stars have recently emerged as a potential suitor. Much of that hinges on the Jason Robertson situation. The Minnesota Wild are another team said to be keenly interested.

With the draft approaching and Detroit lacking a first-round pick, the organization may feel pressure to resolve the situation sooner rather than later. This could be one of the offseason’s most surprising storylines.

Vincent Trocheck – New York Rangers

Veteran center Vincent Trocheck is another name generating quiet buzz on the trade market. Reports suggest that teams such as the Montreal Canadiens, Los Angeles Kings, and Buffalo Sabres have shown interest in the Rangers forward. Trocheck’s value is believed to be significant, with some speculation that a high draft pick could be part of a potential return.

Buffalo, in particular, has been mentioned as a team to watch, especially after acquiring additional draft capital. While discussions appear to be in the early stages, the level of interest suggests this could gain momentum quickly as teams look to bolster their depth down the middle.

Next: Oilers Prioritizing Darnell Nurse Trade, But No Deal Guaranteed