NHL Trade Deadline: Key Moves and Last-Minute Deals Unfold

DENVER — The 2025 NHL trade deadline has arrived, prompting a flurry of trades as teams scramble to improve their rosters before the 3:00 p.m. ET deadline. Key players like Brad Marchand and Brandon Carlo are making headlines as teams engage in a last-minute buying spree.

The Ottawa Senators made a notable move by acquiring left winger Fabian Zetterlund from the San Jose Sharks. The 25-year-old scored 24 goals last season and has added 17 to his tally this season, bolstering Ottawa’s offensive lineup.

Meanwhile, the Boston Bruins continued their fire sale by sending defenseman Brandon Carlo to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Carlo, who led the Bruins in blocked shots, is a significant addition for Toronto, which aims to strengthen its defensive lineup. In exchange, the Bruins received prospect Fraser Minten.

For the Florida Panthers, the addition of Marchand, currently battling injuries, signals their intent for a deep playoff run. Marchand will join a formidable forward corps, including Sam Bennett and Matthew Tkachuk. Details of the trade remain pending as the clock ticks closer to the deadline.

The Dallas Stars secured a five-year extension with 21-year-old Wyatt Johnston, who has become a key player with 23 goals and 59 points this season. This move solidifies Dallas’ commitment to youth in their lineup.

The Detroit Red Wings acquired Petr Mrazek and Craig Smith from the Chicago Blackhawks. While Mrazek’s performance has been underwhelming with an .890 save percentage, Smith aims to bolster Detroit’s scoring options.

In another significant deal, the Colorado Avalanche acquired Charlie Coyle from Boston while sending Casey Mittelstadt to the Bruins. Coyle brings playoff experience and scoring ability to Colorado, who are looking to enhance their second-line options.

Carolina‘s big move includes acquiring Logan Stankoven, two first-round picks, and two third-rounders in a deal involving Mikko Rantanen. The Hurricanes, eager to strengthen their contender status, are actively pursuing further enhancements to their roster.

The Maple Leafs’ acquisition of Scott Laughton from the Philadelphia Flyers came as fans were eagerly anticipating a major move. Laughton, a versatile forward with a reasonable cap hit, adds depth and physicality to Toronto’s roster as they aim for playoff success.

With many teams looking to improve ahead of the postseason, the trade deadline continues to see activity. The Winnipeg Jets and other teams face increasing pressure to finalize deals that will strengthen their chances in a competitive Central Division.

As the deadline approaches and more trades are finalized, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these moves will impact the playoff landscape in the coming months.