As the March 7, 2025, NHL trade deadline approaches, front offices across the league are actively exploring potential moves to strengthen their rosters for a playoff push or set themselves up for future success. Big names in trade discussions include Mikko Rantanen, Brock Nelson, Ryan O’Reilly, and John Gibson. Tomas Hertl’s recent trade to Vegas shows that unexpected trade can shake up the market,but the focus now is on realistic trade targets likely to move soon.

Top players who could still be on the move

Mikko Rantanen’s future in Carolina remains uncertain after his blockbuster trade, while veteran centers Brock Nelson and Ryan O’Reilly could provide valuable depth for contenders. In net, John Gibson has emerged as a key trade target for teams seeking stability.Tomas Hertl’s recent trade to Vegas shows that surprises can happen, and as teams prepare for the final stretch, more moves could be on the way.
Mikko Rantanen, an elite winger and one of the NHL’s top scorers, was recently traded from the Colorado Avalanche to the Carolina Hurricanes in a blockbuster deal. However, his future in Carolina remains uncertain as he has yet to commit to a long-term contract extension, leading to speculation that he could become available again.
Centers Brock Nelson and Ryan O’Reilly stand out as experienced two-way forwards who could provide a major boost to a contender’s depth down the middle. Nelson, a consistent scorer for the New York Islanders, is in the final year of his contract, and with the team still battling for a playoff spot, management must decide whether to trade him for assets or keep him for a postseason push. O’Reilly, a Stanley Cup champion and Conn Smythe winner, continues to be one of the league’s top defensive forwards and could bring valuable leadership to a team in need of a reliable center.

Goaltending is another area of focus as teams prepare for the playoff grind, and John Gibson has emerged as a name to watch. The longtime Anaheim Ducks netminder has proven he can still perform at a high level, making him a potential trade target for teams looking to solidify their goaltending situation.
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As always, the NHL trade deadline has the potential to deliver shocking moves that no one sees coming—like Tomas Hertl’s recent trade to the Vegas Golden Knights. While those unexpected blockbusters can shake up the league, the focus now is on the more realistic trade targets who are likely to be moved in the coming days.