NHL Trade Deadline 2025: Key Deals That Could Reshape the League

Potential Blockbuster Trades Before the NHL Deadline

As the NHL trade deadline approaches at 3 p.m. ET on Friday, the league is abuzz with speculation about which blockbuster deals could still happen. Here are six trades that could significantly impact the league's dynamics:

Mikko Rantanen to the Winnipeg Jets
- Details: Rantanen, a pending UFA, has not lived up to expectations in Carolina. The Hurricanes could trade Rantanen to Winnipeg for Nikolaj Ehlers and Rasmus Kupari, giving the Jets a stronger push for the Stanley Cup.
- Impact: Rantanen's addition would bolster Winnipeg's already formidable offense, while Carolina gains future assets.
Brock Nelson to the Minnesota Wild
- Details: The Wild, seeking to strengthen their top-six forward group amidst injuries, could acquire Nelson from the New York Islanders.
- Impact: Nelson's two-way play could significantly aid Minnesota's playoff push.
Elias Pettersson to the Utah Hockey Club
- Details: Struggling in Vancouver, Pettersson could be traded to Utah for a package including Barrett Hayton and Matias Maccelli.
- Impact: This trade could rejuvenate Pettersson's career and provide Utah with a much-needed star center.
Brayden Schenn to the Toronto Maple Leafs
- Details: The Maple Leafs might trade for Schenn to solidify their center depth, offering prospect Fraser Minten in return.
- Impact: Schenn's experience and defensive skills could be crucial for Toronto's playoff aspirations.
Rickard Rakell to the Utah Hockey Club
- Details: Utah could acquire Rakell from the Pittsburgh Penguins, adding a veteran scoring presence.
- Impact: Rakell's acquisition would be a significant boost for Utah's forward lineup.
Yanni Gourde to the Tampa Bay Lightning
- Details: The Lightning might bring back Gourde from the Seattle Kraken to bolster their depth.
- Impact: Gourde's defensive prowess and experience could be invaluable for Tampa Bay's playoff run.