As June approaches, the hockey community is focused on the Stanley Cup Final rematch between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers. The conclusion of the playoffs will usher in a busy offseason, highlighted by the 2025 NHL Draft set to take place in Los Angeles from June 27 to 28. With the trade market quiet since the March 8 trade deadline, teams will soon begin strategizing to enhance their rosters for the upcoming season and beyond. Anticipation for trade activity is particularly high leading up to and during the draft weekend, as speculation mounts regarding several notable players.

Among the players drawing attention are Chris Kreider of the New York Rangers and Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who have previously featured on the May NHL Trade Block Big Board. Recent rumors also include Jonathan Marchessault of the Nashville Predators and JJ Peterka of the Buffalo Sabres. Seven players, including Elias Pettersson and Thatcher Demko of Vancouver, Mike Zibanejad of the New York Rangers, Joonas Korpisalo of Boston, Matias Maccelli of Utah, and Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Anders Lee of the New York Islanders, have been removed from this list due to a lack of trade rumors this past month.

The Montreal Canadiens' acquisition of Patrik Laine from the Columbus Blue Jackets was intended to bolster their offense. Laine, who missed significant time due to a knee injury, still managed to score 20 goals and total 33 points in 52 games as a power-play specialist. However, his production waned towards the end of the season and into the playoffs, where he participated in only two games due to a broken finger. Recent commentary from media sources suggests that Laine’s future with the Canadiens is uncertain, as general manager Kent Hughes defended the player, indicating he played a crucial role in the team’s playoff journey. With Laine in the final year of his contract, the trade winds could swirl if the Canadiens decide to create cap space for future moves.

The New York Rangers remain active in the trade market under general manager Chris Drury, who has been retooling the roster throughout the regular season. Drury has been moving out veterans and focusing on younger talent, which led to the December trade of Kaapo Kakko to the Seattle Kraken for Will Borgen. Speculation has begun regarding the potential availability of Alexis Lafrenière, who was originally selected first overall in the 2020 NHL Draft. Despite a drop in point production this season, the Rangers may opt to retain Lafrenière to evaluate his performance under the new head coach Mike Sullivan.

The Pittsburgh Penguins made headlines at the 2024 trade deadline with the unexpected trade of Jake Guentzel to the Carolina Hurricanes. This development has prompted discussions about another former Crosby linemate, Bryan Rust, who has garnered interest from multiple teams as his no-movement clause expires on July 1. Rust has consistently excelled alongside Crosby and has maintained impressive scoring numbers throughout his tenure. While the Penguins are in a rebuilding phase, they may consider an offer that could bring in younger talent.

In the wake of the St. Louis Blues' first-round playoff elimination, Jordan Kyrou's future with the team has come under scrutiny. As his no-trade clause approaches its activation, questions arise about whether he fits into the club's long-term vision. Despite leading the Blues in goals this season, concerns have emerged regarding his performance during the playoffs, raising doubts about his future. The impending no-trade clause could heighten interest in Kyrou as potential trade discussions take shape.

The Tampa Bay Lightning face an uncertain future regarding Isaac Howard, the 31st overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, who has expressed reluctance to sign an entry-level deal with the team. With general manager Julien BriseBois indicating that a resolution will need to be reached, teams looking to enhance their prospect pools may keep a keen eye on Howard's situation as the offseason progresses.

Amidst roster concerns, Philadelphia Flyers general manager Daniel Brière is eyeing a center to address depth issues, potentially utilizing Owen Tippett as a trade chip. Tippett boasts a solid scoring record but trading him may prove challenging given the Flyers' need for reliable depth in either wing position. Brière remains committed to retaining promising young players while navigating a roster overhaul.

K'Andre Miller, a promising defenseman for the New York Rangers, has experienced a decline in performance, leading to speculation about his potential availability in trade discussions. With his arbitration rights approaching, the Rangers may explore the market to gauge Miller's value, particularly if they believe a trade could yield a return aligned with their long-term plans.

The Calgary Flames are set to negotiate a contract extension with Rasmus Andersson, whose pivotal role as an alternate captain is key to the team's success. If a new agreement cannot be reached, the Flames may consider trading Andersson to avoid a repeat of prior seasons where players were moved mid-year.

Brayden Schenn of the St. Louis Blues could also generate interest as teams seek established centers, having already pulled attention leading up to the March trade deadline. With three years remaining on his contract, the potential for his move remains tied to the team’s direction as they continue to rebuild.

Buffalo Sabres forward JJ Peterka has emerged as a significant performer, finishing second in team scoring this season. Although he is completing his entry-level contract without arbitration rights, the possibility remains that the Sabres might trade him if negotiations become tricky. With ample cap space, the Sabres could be well-positioned to explore deals that enhance their roster.

Jonathan Marchessault's turbulent season with the Nashville Predators has led to discussions about his fit with the team. Having underperformed relative to his last year's output, rumors suggest he may be amenable to a trade that aligns with his aspirations, especially given his reported interest in a potential deal to join the Montreal Canadiens.

Erik Karlsson, an aging defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins, remains a focal point in trade discussions as the offseason nears. The Penguins acquired Karlsson during the last offseason with high hopes, but the strategic mismatch with the team’s rebuilding efforts could drive him toward a trade. Despite his high salary and past defensive inconsistencies, he could attract interest from teams in need of veteran leadership and offensive capabilities from the blue line.

Chris Kreider continues to be a name mentioned in trade discussions as the New York Rangers look to refine their roster. His reliability as a goal-scorer and playoff experience draws attention from teams in need of offensive prowess. The question remains whether Drury can find the right balance to manage Kreider’s contract, amidst the pressures of the salary cap.

Marco Rossi is another intriguing name, especially after a career-best season. The Minnesota Wild’s restricted free agent status offers leverage but could lead to Rossi being dangled as trade bait, particularly if potential suitors materialize. The interest from various franchises, including the Philadelphia Flyers and Chicago Blackhawks, underscores the potential volatility surrounding his future.

Bowen Byram has shown significant improvement, emerging as a valuable asset for the Sabres. With arbitration rights approaching, his performance this season may boost his bargaining power. However, should the Sabres prioritize retaining forward talent, Byram may become a trade option as management assesses roster needs and potential trades that enhance their competitive edge.