Articles / The 10 Biggest In-Season Trades in NHL History

The 10 Biggest In-Season Trades in NHL History

T
The Hockey Writers
Dec 20, 2025 2:25 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by The Hockey Writers. Read the full original article here →

The NHL has seen numerous trades that have drastically changed the landscape of the league, but a select few stand out as the most impactful. From the infamous trade of Wayne Gretzky to the Los Angeles Kings in 1988, which shocked hockey fans and revolutionized the sport, to the acquisition of Eric Lindros by the Philadelphia Flyers in 1992, these transactions significantly altered the trajectories of franchises.

Another monumental trade occurred in 2016 when the Chicago Blackhawks sent star forward Artemi Panarin to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Brandon Saad. This move not only reshaped both teams’ rosters but also illustrated the complex dynamics of NHL trades, where financial considerations often coexist with on-ice performance.

In more recent years, the trade that brought Jack Eichel from the Buffalo Sabres to the Vegas Golden Knights made headlines for its rarity; it marked a significant shift for both players and teams involved. Eichel's move was not just a simple roster change; it also indicated a larger trend of teams reshaping their identities and pursuing championships through bold trades.

As the trade deadline approaches each season, fans eagerly speculate on what moves will be made. The stories behind these trades, filled with drama, strategy, and sometimes frustration, resonate throughout the league, reminding everyone of how one pivotal moment can transform a franchise’s future.