Articles / NHL Rumors: Teams to Watch as the Holiday Roster Freeze Draws Closer

NHL Rumors: Teams to Watch as the Holiday Roster Freeze Draws Closer

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NHL Rumors
Dec 6, 2025 3:10 PM

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As the NHL approaches the holiday roster freeze, teams are eyeing potential moves to strengthen their lineups. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for franchises like the Pittsburgh Penguins and Toronto Maple Leafs, both eager to make a significant impact ahead of the trade deadline. The Penguins have been reportedly scouting for a solid defenseman, while the Maple Leafs might look to bolster their forward lines to ensure a deep playoff run.

In the mix, the New Jersey Devils are also considering their options as they aim to keep pace in the competitive Metropolitan Division. With rising stars like Jack Hughes leading the charge, the Devils understand that timely additions could elevate their playoff aspirations.

Conversely, teams like the Buffalo Sabres and Chicago Blackhawks may be more inclined to explore trading veteran players. With the Sabres showcasing impressive young talent, moving a player like Zemgus Girgensons could free up cap space for future acquisitions, while the Blackhawks might look to maximize returns on their veterans as they continue their rebuild.

Overall, the upcoming holiday roster freeze sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting period of speculation and strategic planning for NHL teams. With so much at stake, every move could shape the landscape of the league heading into the new year.