The NHL trade deadline is creeping up, and you know what that means—rumors flying, insiders speculating, and fanbases collectively losing their minds. Who’s getting moved? Who’s staying put? And which teams are about to make a desperate, last-second push for the playoffs?

For teams hovering around the playoff bubble, the decision to buy, sell, or hold can be agonizing. Push too hard for a playoff spot, and they risk mortgaging their future. Stand pat, and they might waste a golden opportunity. It’s a high-stakes balancing act, where one wrong move could haunt a franchise for years. This tension is what makes the NHL trade deadline one of the most electrifying moments in the hockey season—a chess match where every move has consequences.

But who are these players that face uncertainty? Well, Nick Kypreos of SportsNet has just listed the names of 25 players that could be on the move, and while not all of them will switch jerseys, the sheer volume of trade chatter suggests we’re in for some fireworks.

There are some players on the list that seem far-fetched, while some players look like they could be traded at any second. The question is: Who’s ready to take a gamble?

Breaking down the NHL trade rumors

Let’s talk big names first. Mikko Rantanen and Brad Marchand are on the list, but let’s be honest: pulling off a trade for either would be a long shot. Furthermore, Marchand’s latest injury almost certainly rules him out as a tradable asset, though the door is fully shut there either. As for Rantanen? It all depends on what the Hurricanes decide to do with him. Still, their inclusion adds some spice to the speculation.

Meanwhile, teams looking for firepower should keep an eye out for Brock Boeser, Dylan Cozens, Alex Tuch, Brock Nelson, Reilly Smith, and Casey Mittelstadt. These guys can score, and a strategic trade could be the difference between a first-round exit and a deep playoff run.

Defensemen are always in high demand this time of year, and there are plenty of solid options here. Erik Karlsson, Bowen Byram, Colton Parayko, Mario Ferraro, Rasmus Ristolainen, and Carson Soucy are all names to watch out for. Whether it’s a Cup contender shoring up their blue line or a team looking to offload a big contract, expect movement on the defensive front.

And then there’s the goalie market: Jordan Binnington and John Gibson are two netminders who could be on the move, especially if teams get desperate for stability in the crease. The Oilers are one team that could use the services of either goalie. Now, let’s not forget the gritty, depth guys who don’t always make headlines but become playoff heroes.

Trevor Zegras, Ryan Donato, Scott Laughton, Brandon Tanev, Yanni Gourde, Lawson Crouse, Jake Evans, and Trent Frederic bring that mix of versatility, physicality, and energy that teams crave in the post-season. These are the types of players who can turn a tight series in their team’s favor.

With just days left before the NHL deadline, buckle up. We could be in for major surprises, last-minute deals, and maybe even a grand showdown!