Introduction

As the NHL's annual trade deadline approaches on March 6, 2026, teams are starting to evaluate their rosters and consider potential trades. With several teams struggling early in the season, it's a perfect time to assess which players may be on the move as trade candidates.

Calgary Flames and Rasmus Andersson

The Calgary Flames, who narrowly missed the playoffs last season, have had a disappointing start, sitting at the bottom of the standings with just one win in their first nine games. This situation puts a spotlight on defenseman Rasmus Andersson, who is in the final season of a four-year contract worth $4.55 million annually and will become an unrestricted free agent in July. Despite his declining production, Andersson's physical play and experience make him an attractive asset as a potential trade chip if the Flames decide to sell.

San Jose Sharks and Mario Ferraro

Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks continue their rebuilding phase under GM Mike Grier, likely to trade veterans on expiring contracts if they remain out of playoff contention. Mario Ferraro, a solid defensive blueliner, could be another trade candidate as he approaches the final season of his contract with a $3.3 million cap hit. With teams monitoring Ferraro's status, he could be a sought-after player as the trade deadline nears.

New York Islanders and Anders Lee

In a similar situation, Anders Lee, the New York Islanders captain, is in the last year of his seven-year contract with an average annual value of $7 million. With a scoring resurgence in the early season, Lee may attract interest if the Islanders opt for a rebuild. Currently among the franchise's leaders in goals and games played, Lee is poised to be a pivotal rental player should the Islanders become sellers.

New York Rangers and Artemi Panarin

The New York Rangers are evaluating their roster after a lackluster start to the season. Artemi Panarin, carrying a considerable $11.642 million cap hit and eligible for free agency in July, could be on the move if the team doesn't start winning. Despite being the Rangers' scoring leader consistently, Panarin's slow start raises questions about his future with the team.

Pittsburgh Penguins: Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust

The Pittsburgh Penguins also face trade chatter, with Rickard Rakell undergoing surgery that could impact his trade value. Following a career-best season, Rakell was positioned as a valuable asset, but his injury sidelines him for 6-8 weeks. His teammate Bryan Rust remains in trade conversations as well, despite a slow offensive start. The Penguins' solid early performance may keep him in Pittsburgh for the time being.

Buffalo Sabres and Alex Tuch

Finally, the Buffalo Sabres, in a precarious position, must address their playoff drought. Alex Tuch, in the final season of a $4.8 million AAV contract, has shown scoring potential and is a potential trade piece if the Sabres decide to offload players later in the season. Various teams have already expressed interest in acquiring Tuch for scoring depth.

Conclusion

The NHL trade landscape is bound to evolve as the March deadline approaches. With several teams struggling and players in their final contract years, expect trade talks to heat up as management considers the best paths forward to build competitive rosters.