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NHL Trade Talk Recap: Habs, Canucks, Oilers, Leafs, Pens
NHL Trade Talk Recap Dec. 18: Habs make trade, Canucks make plan for Boeser, Oilers consider trades, Leafs goalie situation & Robertson
In another NHL Trade Talk Recap (Dec. 18), the NHL trade market is heating up, with notable moves including the Canadiens sending Justin Barron to the Predators for Alexandre Carrier. The Penguins are reacquiring Joseph from the Blues. Meanwhile, the Rangers made waves by trading Kaapo Kakko to the Kraken for Will Borgen and two draft picks.
In other trade buzz, the Canucks are reportedly preparing for a backup plan if Brock Boeser’s contract talks fall through, while the Bruins face decisions on potential trade candidates like Brad Marchand and Trent Frederic. The Ducks are said to have a contract strategy ready for Jacob Trouba, and the Oilers might explore Evan Bouchard’s trade value before offering him a long-term deal.
For the Maple Leafs, Nick Robertson’s future and Matt Murray’s showcase games are in focus. Elsewhere, Jeff Skinner may be close to a trade deal. Patrik Laine’s return is critical for the Canadiens’ playoff hopes, and the Sabres’ losing streak hit 11 games, leaving the team searching for answers.

Top NHL Trade Talk Recap Story:
Rangers’ Internal Struggles: Kaap Kakko Traded
Growing frustration among Rangers players reportedly targets GM Chris Drury, not head coach Peter Laviolette. This sparks speculation about Drury’s future with the team. Is Drury’s tenure as Rangers GM nearing its end amid mounting player dissatisfaction?
Before things come to a head with management, the Rangers made a trade, moving Kaapo Kakko to the Seattle Kraken in what most insiders are calling a losing deal for New York.
With just hours to go before the NHL roster freeze, there were two other trades on Wednesday evening.
Read More About the Rangers Here
Robertson’s Maple Leafs Future Hangs in the Balance
After an up-and-down season, Nick Robertson’s potential as a reliable contributor for the Maple Leafs remains uncertain, with time running out for him to prove his worth. Can Robertson finally seize his chance—or is time running out for him in Toronto? [As a note, Robertson was the best player on the Maple Leafs lineup tonight in a 5-3 win against the Stars in Dallas.]
Read the Post About Robertson Here:
Canucks Face Tough Decision on Brock Boeser
As the Vancouver Canucks seek roster upgrades, contract talks with star forward Brock Boeser remain stalled, raising questions about his future with the team. Will the Canucks lock in Boeser—or risk losing their star for nothing?
Other NHL Trade Talk Recap Dec. 18 Stories
- Canadiens Trade Justin Barron to Preds for Alexandre Carrier
- Penguins Bring Back P.O Joseph in Trade with Blues
- Rangers Trade Kaapo Kakko to Kraken for Borgen and Two Picks
- Ducks Reportedly Already Have Contract Plan for Jacob Trouba
- Canucks to Protect Themselves in Trade If Boeser Deal Falls Apart
- Time for Maple Leafs to Showcase Matt Murray
- Jeff Skinner Trade “Agreement” Likely, Says Former Oiler
- NHL Insider Lists Marchand as Trade Candidate for Bruins
- Maple Leafs Goaltending Way Better than Anyone Expected
- 3 Trade Destinations For Bruins’ Trent Frederic
- Nick Robertson’s Last Chance to Salvage His Season
- Justin Schultz Officially Announces NHL Retirement
- Patrik Laine’s Comeback Key for Canadiens Playoff Push
- Rangers and NHL Trade Talk Morning Roundup: December 18
- Team-Only Meeting Reveals Unexpected Source of Rangers’ Anger
- Oilers May Explore Bouchard Trade Value Before Long-Term Offer
- Three Players to Watch Ahead of the NHL Trade Roster Freeze
- Sabres Losing Streak Hits 11 Games: “Out of Solutions” in Room
Related: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Canucks, Sabres, Oilers, Lightning, Flames
