The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, set for 3 p.m. ET this Friday, and significant moves are already making waves. Notably, the Colorado Avalanche traded Mikko Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes and acquired Ryan Lindgren from the New York Rangers, while the Rangers added J.T. Miller from the Vancouver Canucks. The Vancouver Canucks then used the draft pick received to secure Marcus Pettersson and Drew O’Connor from the Pittsburgh Penguins. The defending champion Florida Panthers recently bolstered their defense by acquiring Seth Jones from the Chicago Blackhawks, paving the way for more blockbuster trades in the coming days. Here’s a look at the leading teams and their needs leading up to the trade deadline in both the Eastern and Western Conferences:
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Washington Capitals
Despite a strong showing post-break, the Capitals are on the lookout for a bottom-six center to strengthen their lineup.
Carolina Hurricanes
The Hurricanes are eager for Rantanen to re-sign, as they face the challenge of potentially losing him after last year’s acquisition of Jake Guentzel.
New Jersey Devils
In need of secondary scoring, the Devils seek to bolster their offensive capabilities, especially with key player Jack Hughes recently sidelined.
Toronto Maple Leafs
A third-line center and additional support for their power play unit are on the Maple Leafs’ wish list as they aim to enhance their depth.
Florida Panthers
The addition of Seth Jones addressed a pressing need on defense, but the Panthers could benefit from another scoring winger with Matthew Tkachuk on long-term injured reserve.
Tampa Bay Lightning
Following a recent winning streak, the Lightning are looking to shore up their depth, particularly due to salary cap constraints affecting their lineup.
Columbus Blue Jackets
Surprising many by clinching a playoff spot, the Blue Jackets are working to solidify their roster and add experience for a postseason push.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Winnipeg Jets
Similar to the Capitals, the Jets are in good form but seek to reinforce their defense, particularly in penalty killing situations.
Dallas Stars
With recent acquisitions of Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci, the Stars are eyeing another defenseman to support their lineup amidst ongoing injuries in key positions.
Minnesota Wild
Adding Gustav Nyquist to their roster, the Wild are eagerly awaiting the return of Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek to boost their offense.
Colorado Avalanche
While making strides in goaltending and acquiring Necas, the Avalanche are exploring the possibility of upgrading their No. 2 center position as they monitor Gabriel Landeskog’s status.
Vegas Golden Knights
Known for making significant moves at the deadline, the Golden Knights are expected to be active as they aim to further enhance their lineup.
Edmonton Oilers
GM Stan Bowman is leading the Oilers as they navigate the trade deadline, looking to make strategic moves for their roster.
In an interview with the Daily Faceoff, the Los Angeles Kings’ general manager stated that he is not looking to make changes in the goaltending department. Instead, the team is focusing on bolstering their depth in both forward and defense positions.
The Kings currently sit at the 22nd spot in the league in terms of offense, indicating a need for additional scoring power. It is recommended that the team actively pursue another skilled scorer to enhance their offensive capabilities.
This article was originally featured on USA TODAY and outlines the specific trade deadline needs for playoff-contending teams in the NHL.
