Introduction

The NHL's trade deadline has passed, but the excitement about potential offseason moves is just heating up. With the end of the regular season approaching on April 16, teams are looking ahead to the offseason, where trades become a critical strategy for retooling rosters. As organizations assess their performance, several players have emerged as the top trade candidates heading into the summer of 2026. In this article, we rank the ten players most likely to be on the move during the upcoming offseason, analyzing their situations, contracts, and likelihood of a trade.

1. Vincent Trocheck (New York Rangers)

Sitting at the top of our trade board is Vincent Trocheck, the 32-year-old center of the New York Rangers. Trocheck has garnered significant interest from other teams this season. Despite not being traded prior to the March 6 deadline, Rangers General Manager Chris Drury is expected to explore trade opportunities for Trocheck, especially with a lack of depth in the upcoming free agency market. His contract, averaging $5.63 million through 2028-29, positions him as a desirable target for teams seeking a strong second-line center. Trocheck’s no-trade clause also gives Drury additional flexibility for negotiations this summer.

2. Robert Thomas (St. Louis Blues)

Following closely behind is Robert Thomas of the St. Louis Blues. With the team undergoing significant roster changes since last fall, a trade might be in the cards for Thomas. Although he has expressed commitment to the Blues and stated he has not been approached about waiving his no-trade clause, his high asking price could attract attention from teams looking to boost their centers. Signed through 2030-31 with an average annual value of $8.13 million, Thomas remains a valuable asset in a market reshaped by rebuilding strategies.

3. Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs)

Entering this season, it would have been hard to fathom that Auston Matthews would be on the trade board. However, the Toronto Maple Leafs' struggles have opened the door for speculation. Discussions between Matthews and the team’s management are anticipated post-season, particularly in light of his recent injury. With two years remaining on his deal, Matthews’ position has raised eyebrows, especially with teams like the Minnesota Wild reportedly considering pursuing him. His full no-movement clause means that his next steps will depend heavily on the discussions that unfold in the coming months.

4. Elias Pettersson (Vancouver Canucks)

Elias Pettersson has become a focal point of speculation since the Canucks’ roster overhaul began. The 27-year-old center has had difficulty finding his offensive rhythm over the last two seasons, which, coupled with his hefty contract, left him untraded before the deadline. With the Canucks signaling a rebuild, Pettersson could be a favorable target during the offseason if he agrees to waive his no-movement clause. If a deal is to be made, the Canucks will likely require a team willing to take on the entirety of his contract.

5. Brock Boeser (Vancouver Canucks)

Another Vancouver player under the microscope is Brock Boeser. Despite a full no-movement clause and being in his first season of a new seven-year deal, Boeser’s name has circulated in trade discussions. Although Boeser has committed to the Canucks’ rebuilding efforts, rumors suggest he may consider waiving his clause for the right offer. His potential availability could open avenues for teams like the New York Islanders or Boston Bruins.

6. Rasmus Ristolainen (Philadelphia Flyers)

Rasmus Ristolainen has long been on the radar as a candidate for a trade. The 31-year-old defenseman remained with the Flyers after the deadline despite heavy speculation. With one year left on his contract, there is a chance he could be moved this offseason if there is sufficient interest. Briere’s management of Ristolainen’s value could see him leveraged in a shallow free-agent market this summer.

7. Jordan Binnington (St. Louis Blues)

St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington rounds out the list as the franchise begins its reshaping efforts. After being included in trade discussions shortly before the March deadline, concerns over Binnington's inconsistent performance have not diminished his potential value. A contender might still seek Binnington’s experience in the postseason given his Stanley Cup pedigree, especially with the impending expiration of his contract.

8. Matthew Knies (Toronto Maple Leafs)

Rumors of Matthew Knies' availability emerged soon after the trade deadline. Though the 23-year-old winger has struggled with injuries, his size and recent performance still pique interest around the league. Teams seeking to bolster their forward lines may see Knies as a viable candidate, particularly if the Maple Leafs decide to shake up their core.

9. Šimon Nemec (New Jersey Devils)

Defenseman Šimon Nemec has found himself in trade talks as the New Jersey Devils look to bolster their lineup. Suggested as a valuable asset that other teams could pursue, his recent entry-level contract makes him an affordable target for contenders. The Devils’ management may consider leveraging Nemec in a deal that could bring in a top-six winger.

10. Mika Zibanejad (New York Rangers)

Finally, Mika Zibanejad's name has come up as a potential candidate for a trade this summer. With the Rangers in a state of rebuilding, Zibanejad's position could change, especially given his desire to pursue a Stanley Cup with a competitive team. His future remains uncertain as he has a no-movement clause, but the speculation surrounding him suggests that change could be on the horizon.

Conclusion

The upcoming offseason promises to be an exciting period for the NHL, with many teams looking to reshape their rosters. As we anticipate the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, these ten players have emerged as key trade candidates that could impact the league's landscape moving forward. Whether through trades or restructuring, franchises must strategize wisely to find success in their future endeavors.