As the hockey world turns its attention to the Stanley Cup Final rematch between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers, discussions are heating up beyond the ice. June marks the beginning of significant offseason activity, including the anticipated 2025 NHL Draft taking place in Los Angeles on June 27 and 28. Following the playoffs, NHL teams are expected to ramp up efforts to enhance their rosters, with trade rumors increasing as clubs prepare for the upcoming season and beyond.

Despite a relatively quiet trade market since the March 8 deadline, speculation is prevalent as teams weigh their options. Notable players such as Chris Kreider of the New York Rangers and Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins remain in focus, while new names like Jonathan Marchessault of the Nashville Predators and JJ Peterka of the Buffalo Sabres have surfaced in recent reports. This month's NHL Trade Block Big Board highlights 15 players of interest, while seven from last month's list have fallen off due to minimal engagement in trade conversations.

Patrik Laine, acquired by the Montréal Canadiens from the Columbus Blue Jackets last summer, faces scrutiny as he navigates his final contract year, valued at an average annual rate of $8.7 million. Although Laine's early-season injury impacted his performance, his contributions were still deemed essential by Canadiens management. The New York Rangers, under the leadership of general manager Chris Drury, remain active in exploring roster options, with Alexis Lafrenière potentially in play for trade discussions despite his recent struggles. Meanwhile, Bryan Rust of the Pittsburgh Penguins has drawn interest from other teams, and the Blues may need to reevaluate Jordan Kyrou's role after a disappointing postseason.

The Tampa Bay Lightning selected Isaac Howard, but ongoing uncertainties surrounding his future could lead to a trade if an entry-level contract is not reached. The Philadelphia Flyers' center depth issues have led to speculation regarding Owen Tippett, who may become a trade asset. The New York Rangers' K'Andre Miller could also be on the trading block if the team deems it advantageous to restructure their roster. Rasmus Andersson of the Calgary Flames is also in a precarious situation as he approaches free agency, while Brayden Schenn of the St. Louis Blues remains a focal point among teams seeking a center.

The Buffalo Sabres' JJ Peterka has emerged as a promising player but could attract trade interest if contract negotiations falter. In Nashville, Marchessault is under consideration for relocation, and the Penguins' Karlsson remains a viable candidate for trades as they continue to rebuild. Lastly, Kreider could be explored in trade talks as his experience and scoring capability could appeal to teams looking to bolster their line-up. As the offseason unfolds, these narratives and the potential trades may have a lasting impact on the 2025 NHL season.

Overall, the upcoming months will present opportunities for teams to reshape their rosters, potentially leading to significant shifts in player dynamics across the league. With numerous teams openly in pursuit of improvements, the trade market is likely to see heightened activity, making it an exciting period for fans and analysts alike.