As June approaches, the focus in the hockey community shifts to the Stanley Cup Final, where the Edmonton Oilers are set to face off against the Florida Panthers in a rematch. Following the conclusion of the playoffs, the offseason activities will commence, including the NHL Draft scheduled in Los Angeles on June 27 and 28. Although the trade market has been relatively quiet since the March 8 trade deadline, it is expected to regain momentum as teams begin to make moves aimed at improving their rosters for the upcoming season and beyond. Notably, much of the trade activity is anticipated to occur around the draft weekend, with increasing speculation and rumors surrounding several high-profile NHL players.

Players like Chris Kreider of the New York Rangers and Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins have been frequently discussed in trade rumors, having previously appeared in Moneyline's May NHL Trade Block Big Board. Several recent names have also emerged in ongoing trade discussions, including Jonathan Marchessault of the Nashville Predators and JJ Peterka of the Buffalo Sabres. Seven players from May's list, including Elias Pettersson and Thatcher Demko from Vancouver, Mike Zibanejad from New York, Joonas Korpisalo from Boston, Matias Maccelli from Utah, and the Islanders' Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Anders Lee, have fallen off the rumor mill due to limited chatter throughout the month.

One player in question is Patrik Laine, acquired last August by the Montréal Canadiens from the Columbus Blue Jackets. Laine failed to meet expectations despite tallying 20 goals and 33 points in 52 games after recovering from injury. On May 2, a report by Pat Hickey from The Montréal Gazette stated that Laine might not fit into the Canadiens' pace of play, leading to speculation about a potential trade. On the contrary, general manager Kent Hughes defended Laine, asserting that the team would not have made the playoffs without him. Laine's contract, valued at $8.7 million annually, includes a no-trade provision and complicates his potential movement.

Similarly, the New York Rangers, known for their active trade strategy under general manager Chris Drury, may look to modify their roster further during the offseason. Drury has prioritized moving veterans who do not align with his long-term planning, and there is speculation regarding the status of Alexis Lafrenière, the first overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft. After signing a seven-year extension, Lafrenière's declining production from last season has led to speculation about his future with the team. There is anticipation that the Rangers will evaluate his performance under new head coach Mike Sullivan before making any decisions.

Another intriguing situation involves Bryan Rust of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who has been a consistent performer alongside Sidney Crosby. With trade inquiries coming in as Rust's no-movement clause approaches its expiration, there is speculation about whether he might be daunted by the ongoing Penguins rebuilding efforts. Despite considerable interest, insiders have noted the significance of Rust's role as an alternate captain and his rapport with younger teammates, which complicates the likelihood of a trade.

Additionally, the St. Louis Blues face a critical decision regarding Jordan Kyrou's fit into their future plans, especially with his no-trade clause looming on July 1. Kyrou performed well during the regular season but struggled during the playoffs, raising questions about his future with the team. His ability to score draws attention from potential suitors, although the Blues may hesitate to move him given his scoring prowess and speed.

Isaac Howard, selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round of the 2022 NHL Draft, has also been mentioned in trade discussions. After winning the Hobey Baker Award, there are concerns about his future in Tampa Bay, leading general manager Julien BriseBois to consider potential trades if an entry-level contract cannot be reached. Howard's offensive skills make him an attractive asset for teams bolstering their prospect pool.

The Philadelphia Flyers find themselves needing to address their center depth, currently reliant on aging and inconsistent options. Owen Tippett has been suggested as a possible trade chip to secure a top-tier center, given his scoring record over recent seasons. A move involving Tippett could free up space for the Flyers to enhance their roster while tapping into their depth at the wing position.

Trade considerations are also swirling around defenseman K'Andre Miller, who has seen fluctuations in performance since a breakout season. As he approaches restricted free agency with arbitration rights, the Rangers are reportedly exploring his trade value. General manager Chris Drury's proactive approach indicates that Miller could be on the move if he does not fit the team's long-term vision.

The Calgary Flames are working to secure defenseman Rasmus Andersson before he becomes a free agent next July. With Andersson playing a crucial role, a successful extension is vital to avoid a repeat of previous trades with key players. If negotiations stall, the Flames could be faced with moving him to prevent losing him completely.

In St. Louis, team captain Brayden Schenn has emerged in trade speculation even as the Blues maintain that he is not on the market. As his no-trade clause converts into a more flexible list, interested clubs may rekindle conversations with the Blues about his availability, especially for teams in need of center options.

JJ Peterka, a rising star for the Buffalo Sabres, finished with a career-high in points this season and has recently drawn attention as a trade candidate. While his status as a core player has been defended by general manager Kevyn Adams, ongoing rumors indicate that other teams remain interested in acquiring him, especially if contract negotiations become complicated.

Jonathan Marchessault of the Nashville Predators has been underwhelming after his significant signing, reportedly seeking a trade that will revitalize his career. While he has four years left on his contract, questions about his fit in Nashville may compel the organization to consider offers, especially from teams like the Canadiens or the Maple Leafs interested in his experience.

Finally, Erik Karlsson remains a pivotal player in trade discussions as the offseason heats up. Recently acquired by the Penguins, Karlsson's contract and performance have made him a candidate for movement, particularly if the team is looking for builders rather than veterans. His skills as a puck-moving defenseman attract interest from several teams, especially if the Penguins are willing to retain some salary to facilitate a trade.