NHL Trade Deadline: Flyers Stand Pat, Devils Seek Impact Forward, and Goalie Market Heats Up
The NHL trade deadline is rapidly approaching, with teams scrambling to make final adjustments before the 3 PM ET cutoff. As of Friday, March 6, 2026, several key storylines are emerging, including the Philadelphia Flyers’ willingness to retain key players, the New Jersey Devils’ search for a specific type of return for a young defenseman, and a bustling market for goaltenders.
Flyers Content with Ristolainen’s Presence
Despite interest from other clubs, the Philadelphia Flyers appear content to hold onto defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen, who has another year remaining on his five-year, $25.5 million contract. According to reports, the Flyers aren’t actively shopping Ristolainen but will listen to offers, refusing to move him unless their price is met. This suggests a belief in his value to the team’s future, rather than viewing him as a simple rental player.
Devils Target Top-6 Forward in Nemec Discussions
The New Jersey Devils are fielding offers for defenseman Simon Nemec, the second overall pick from the 2022 draft. However, they are being highly selective. The Devils are only interested in trading Nemec for a young, impactful top-6 forward who can contribute immediately. This indicates a desire to address an offensive need while capitalizing on the value of a promising young defenseman.
Centermen Trocheck and Kadri in High Demand
Two centers, Vincent Trocheck and Nazem Kadri, are attracting significant attention from contending teams. The Rangers are reportedly asking for a substantial return for Trocheck, whose contract extends through the 2028-2029 season. The Flames, however, are hesitant to retain salary in a potential trade involving Kadri, complicating negotiations. The Minnesota Wild were initially considered a frontrunner for Trocheck, but have reportedly cooled their pursuit due to the high asking price.
Other teams, including the Carolina Hurricanes, Detroit Red Wings, and Boston Bruins, have as well expressed interest in Trocheck. The cost to acquire him is believed to be significantly higher than the package the Toronto Maple Leafs received for Nicolas Roy – a first and fifth-round pick.
The Colorado Avalanche remain interested in Kadri, despite recently acquiring Nicolas Roy. However, Kadri’s $7 million annual salary and contract length through 2028-2029 are proving to be obstacles.
O’Reilly and Stamkos Situations in Nashville
The Nashville Predators are willing to move veteran Ryan O’Reilly, but are seeking a high return – at least a first-round pick and a top prospect. No serious offers have emerged as of yet, and it’s possible O’Reilly will remain with the Predators. O’Reilly and Steven Stamkos both participated in Friday’s practice, while Erik Haula and Jonathan Marchessault did not, suggesting they may be closer to being traded.
Ottawa Focused on Right-Handed Defense
The Ottawa Senators are actively seeking a right-handed defenseman to bolster their roster. They have been both buyers and sellers in recent days and are still looking to add to their defensive core as they attempt to contend for a playoff spot.
Goaltender Market Buzzing
The goalie market is particularly active, with several names circulating in trade discussions. Sergei Bobrovsky, Jesper Wallstedt, Connor Ingram, Jordan Binnington, Anthony Stolarz, and Stuart Skinner have all been mentioned in potential trade scenarios. The Panthers are open to offers for Bobrovsky, who is a pending free agent, but will require a significant return.
Maple Leafs Prioritize Draft Picks for McMann
The Toronto Maple Leafs reportedly prefer to receive draft picks in exchange for forward Bobby McMann, rather than signing him to a contract extension. McMann is a pending free agent, and the Leafs may opt to capitalize on his value through a trade.
FAQ
Q: Will Rasmus Ristolainen be traded?
A: It’s unlikely unless the Flyers receive an offer they deem sufficient.
Q: What is the Devils’ priority in a potential Nemec trade?
A: They are seeking a young, impactful top-6 forward.
Q: How high is the asking price for Vincent Trocheck?
A: Significantly higher than a first and fifth-round pick, potentially exceeding what the Maple Leafs received for Nicolas Roy.
Q: Is Nazem Kadri likely to be traded?
A: It’s uncertain, as teams are hesitant to take on his salary.
Q: Which goalies are most likely to be moved?
A: Sergei Bobrovsky and Jordan Binnington are among the names generating the most trade buzz.
