NHL trade deadline looms as playoff hopefuls weigh key moves and no-trade clauses
The NHL trade deadline is approaching, and several teams are weighing their options. Players like Logan Stanley, Nick Foligno, and Robert Thomas could be on the move as clubs assess playoff chances. Meanwhile, some veterans with full no-trade clauses may stay put despite interest from rivals.
The Winnipeg Jets sit 11 points behind the Anaheim Ducks for the Western Conference's second wild card spot. Defenceman Logan Stanley, in the final year of a two-year, $2.5 million deal, has posted career highs with 18 points and nine goals in 55 games. His performance makes him a potential trade target for contenders.
In the East, the New York Rangers trail the Boston Bruins by 19 points for the second wild card. Goaltender Jonathan Quick, second among active netminders with 408 wins, has a full no-trade clause and prefers to remain with the team. The Rangers also have Artemi Panarin under a similar clause, limiting their flexibility.
The Chicago Blackhawks, 10 points behind Anaheim, could consider moving Nick Foligno. The veteran forward, in the last season of a two-year, $9 million contract, has 10 points in 33 games but is open to joining a Cup contender. His willingness to waive a no-trade clause could speed up a deal.
The Columbus Blue Jackets, just four points out of a playoff spot, have ruled out adding rental players. Under new coach Rick Bowness, they've gone 10-1-0, closing the gap on Boston. Defenceman Dmitri Gavrikov holds a full no-trade clause, further complicating potential moves.
St. Louis Blues forward Robert Thomas knows he could be traded but would need to waive his full no-trade clause. His situation adds another layer to the deadline's uncertainty.
With playoff races tightening, teams must balance short-term gains against long-term plans. Players like Stanley and Foligno could shift to contenders, while others with no-trade clauses may stay. The deadline will reveal which clubs push for the postseason and which rebuild for the future.
