Articles / Which NHL team is the one to watch on the trade market in 2026?

Which NHL team is the one to watch on the trade market in 2026?

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Daily Faceoff
Dec 29, 2025 10:00 PM

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As the NHL trade market heats up for 2026, teams like the Seattle Kraken and Nashville Predators are making headlines for their strategic moves. The Kraken have shown great promise this season, and with the right trades, they could bolster their roster significantly. General Manager Ron Francis is rumored to be eyeing potential deals that could provide the team with both immediate impact players and future prospects to build upon.

Meanwhile, the Nashville Predators find themselves at a crossroads. With players like Roman Josi and Juuse Saros leading the charge, the team is looking to navigate through a difficult season. They might consider parting ways with some veteran talent to prepare for a rebuilding phase, while also searching for the right players to complement their core.

The St. Louis Blues, too, are in a transitional phase with the likes of Jordan Binnington and Ryan O'Reilly possibly on the move. As teams prepare to evaluate their positions ahead of the trade deadline, expect the excitement to elevate in what could be a competitive market. The Buffalo Sabres are also tabled for discussion, and their young talent may attract attention from other clubs looking to capitalize on potential trades.

Fans should brace for an action-packed season as scouts and executives evaluate both immediate needs and long-term strategies. The rumblings around the league indicate that significant changes could be on the horizon, and anticipation is building around how these teams will position themselves in the second half of the season.