Jake Burkey

NHL Free Agency Updates: Key Player Moves & Team Outlooks

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Prediction: Calgary → Vegas
<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/rasmus-andersson/3460">Rasmus Andersson</a> is only willing to sign a long-term extension with the <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/depth-chart/vegas-golden-knights-depth-chart">Vegas Golden Knights</a>, limiting Calgary’s trade options and leverage. With Vegas needing a top-four right-shot defenseman and having cap space due to <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/alex-pietrangelo/3338">Alex Pietrangelo</a>’s LTIR, they’re the most logical destination. Calgary is likely to accept a trade now to maximize value before he hits free agency in 2026.

1. Rasmus Andersson, Defenseman

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Prediction: Vancouver → New York (Rangers)
<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/elias-pettersson/3483">Elias Pettersson</a> could be a fit for the <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/depth-chart/new-york-rangers-depth-chart">New York Rangers</a> because they need a true top-line center with term, and he fits that mold perfectly. There have been signs of tension between he and the Canucks, making a change of scenery possible. With the Rangers having the assets and cap flexibility to make a blockbuster deal, they remain a dark horse destination if Vancouver decides to move him.

2. Elias Pettersson, Forward

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Prediction: Colorado → Philadelphia
<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/martin-necas/4048">Martin Necas</a> would be a strong fit with the Flyers because they need a dynamic top-six forward. He offers speed and scoring versatility at both center and wing, as well as strong power-play production. He would instantly boost Philadelphia’s special teams and transition game. With cap space and a clear top-line role available, the Flyers could give him the offensive spotlight he hasn’t had in Carolina or Colorado.

3. Martin Necas, Forward

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Prediction: Nashville → Toronto
<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/jonathan-marchessault/3355">Jonathan Marchessault</a> would be a great fit in Toronto because he provides the scoring and experience the Maple Leafs need to replace <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/mitch-marner/3819">Mitch Marner</a>. His proven playoff performance and Stanley Cup pedigree bring the competitive edge Toronto wants for a deep postseason run.

4. Jonathan Marchessault, Forward

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Prediction: Minnesota → Vancouver
<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/marco-rossi/3577">Marco Rossi</a> would be an excellent fit for the <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/depth-chart/vancouver-canucks-depth-chart">Vancouver Canucks</a> due to their pressing need for a young, skilled top-six center. At 23, Rossi is coming off a breakout 60-point season and could slot in seamlessly behind <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/elias-pettersson/3483">Elias Pettersson</a>, allowing <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/filip-chytil/3896">Filip Chytil</a> to return to a more natural third-line role. His age and upside align perfectly with Vancouver’s core, offering a long-term solution at center.

5. Marco Rossi, Forward

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Prediction: New Jersey → Utah
Surely, the Devils are sick of how expensive <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/dougie-hamilton/3841">Dougie Hamilton</a> is especially with how little action he sees due to injury. I see Utah as a fit because the Mammoth, as a new team building their roster, would benefit from adding a proven, high-impact defenseman with offensive skill and leadership. Hamilton could help stabilize Utah’s blue line and accelerate their competitiveness in the Central Division.

6. Dougie Hamilton, Defenseman

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Prediction: Pittsburgh → Detroit
The Red Wings are actively seeking to bolster their defense as they aim to end their playoff drought. <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/erik-karlsson/3932">Erik Karlsson</a> could provide the offensive spark needed on their blue line. Discussions between Detroit and Pittsburgh have intensified, with the Penguins possibly retaining part of his salary to facilitate the trade.

7. Erik Karlsson, Defenseman

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Prediction: Dallas → Dallas
I think "Robo" stays put. Despite the Dallas Stars' challenging salary cap situation, retaining <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/jason-robertson/3449">Jason Robertson</a> remains a priority due to his exceptional performance and integral role on the team. Internal discussions indicate a preference to retain him, valuing his contributions and potential future impact. With approximately $5 million in cap space, Dallas is exploring other avenues, such as moving players like <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/mason-marchment/3440">Mason Marchment</a>, to create room.

8. Jason Robertson, Forward

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Prediction: New York (Islanders) → Ottawa
<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/jean-gabriel-pageau/3863">Jean-Gabriel Pageau</a>'s potential return to his hometown Ottawa Senators is gaining traction due to several factors aligning favorably. As a veteran center with a strong two-way game, he could provide the Senators with the depth and leadership needed to bolster their lineup. Returning home to the organization that drafted him easily makes the most sense.

9. Jean-Gabriel Pageau, Forward

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Prediction: Columbus → Vegas
After appearing to lose the starting role in Columbus, <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/elvis-merzlikins/3655">Elvis Merzlikins</a> to the <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/depth-chart/vegas-golden-knights-depth-chart">Vegas Golden Knights</a> could make a lot of sense as Vegas would like some depth behind <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nhl/players/adin-hill/3343">Adin Hill</a> or a potential competition for the starting role. Merzlikins’ strong track record as a starter could provide Vegas with stability and insurance in net, especially given their high playoff ambitions.

10. Elvis Merzlikins, Goalie

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These 10 NHL players are rumored trade targets. Find out who’s likely moving, where they will land, and why each deal makes a lot of sense for both sides.

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