NHL Trade Rumors: 5 Defensemen With Term Who Could Shake Up the Market

As the NHL trade deadline inches closer, contenders are scouring the market for more than just rentals. Defensemen with term remaining on their contracts are especially valuable — offering both immediate help and long-term stability. Several established blue-liners fit that description, and their situations are beginning to draw serious attention.

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Here’s a closer look at five defensemen with term who could be on the move — and their most logical landing spots.

Dougie Hamilton – New Jersey Devils

The New Jersey Devils were reportedly poised to explore trading Dougie Hamilton earlier this season, especially after he was scratched in favor of younger options. With Luke Hughes nearing a return, Hamilton’s name could resurface in trade talks. He carries a $9 million cap hit and a 10-team trade list, with multiple years remaining on his deal.

While no longer at his offensive peak, Hamilton remains a proven puck-moving defenseman who can anchor a second pair and contribute offensively.

Potential fit: Carolina (reunion possibility).

MacKenzie Weegar – Calgary Flames

Speculation around Weegar has intensified as Calgary reportedly fields calls on the veteran blueliner. Signed through 2030-31 at a $6.25 million cap hit, Weegar also holds a full no-trade clause. He’s averaging over 23 minutes per game and has recorded 20 points in 56 games.

A steady, competitive two-way defender, Weegar would command a significant return if the Flames pivot toward a retool.

Teams reportedly linked: Ottawa (though contender preference possible).

Rasmus Ristolainen – Philadelphia Flyers

Ristolainen may be considered as a good option for teams looking for term without trade protection. The 31-year-old has two years remaining on his deal with a $5.1 million AAV and no trade clause. His value was said to be boosted during the Olympic break by his play with Team Finland.

Ristolainen is a physical right-shot defenseman with playoff credentials.

Potential suitors: Toronto, Edmonton, Detroit.

Justin Faulk – St. Louis Blues

The Blues have had interest in Faulk, and he has two years remaining on his deal with a $6.5 million cap hit and some trade protection. His front-loaded deal has him making $4.5 million in real dollars the next two years.

Faulk continues to play heavy minutes (22:29 minutes played per game) and has 30 points in 57 games played, providing two-way minutes and power play help for a second pairing of a Stanley Cup contender.

Teams reportedly linked: Boston, Detroit, Dallas.

Tyler Myers – Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks are indeed for sale, and this includes the possibility of dealing Myers, who has a full no-movement clause left in his current contract and still has a year remaining at a $3 million cap hit.

He sat out Wednesday’s game for trade-related reasons, which suggests trade talks are advancing as he contemplates waiving his NMC.

He’s a 36-year-old third-pairing depth defender who provides size and experience at a reasonable price.

Teams reportedly linked: Dallas, Detroit, Tampa Bay, Carolina.

The Market Outlook

It is a rare occurrence for a defenseman in a situation with term to move without a substantial return. That being said, this year’s market is a singular situation due to cap constraints, internal depth charts, and shifting windows of competition.

Hamilton is a star defenseman in need of creative financing. Weegar offers long-term security at a fair price. Ristolainen offers size and positional flexibility. Faulk offers a mix of experience and skill. Myers offers cost savings with limited term commitment.

For contenders in search of more than a rental, this group of defensemen has a legitimate chance of determining this year’s playoff landscape and possibly even future Stanley Cup contenders.

Next: Insider Reveals the Trade Destination Tyler Myers Is Sitting Out For