Welcome to a quick overview of NHL trades right before the big deadline. Here’s what’s been happening on the ice.
March 5
Senators Acquire Warren Foegele
Trade Details:
- Senators Get: F Warren Foegele
- Kings Get: 2026 2nd-round pick, 2026 3rd-round pick
Foegele is a solid player, known for his defensive skills and penalty killing. While he’s not a goal-scoring machine—his highest point total is only 46—he still brings value as a reliable forward. Ottawa doesn’t necessarily need another forward like him, but Foegele’s work ethic and team spirit make him a worthwhile addition.
The price is reasonable. Many expected a third-rounder, so a second-round pick might be a bit of an overpay, but given Foegele’s contract through next season at $3.5 million, it’s manageable.
Grade: Ottawa: B- | L.A.: A
Stars Acquire Michael Bunting
Trade Details:
- Stars Get: F Michael Bunting
- Predators Get: 2026 3rd-round pick
The Stars are getting busy early. Bunting is a gritty winger who can easily fit into any line, crucial for adding toughness. He’s drawn a lot of penalties since his rookie year, showing his ability to disrupt opponents. For a third-round pick, this move looks smart for Dallas, as it fills a need without breaking the bank.
Nashville has been trading away players, and it’s clear they are reshaping their roster under GM Barry Trotz. Teams are watching to see if he will move more significant names like Steven Stamkos.
Grade: Dallas: A- | Nashville: C+
Avalanche Acquire Nicolas Roy
Trade Details:
- Avalanche Get: F Nicolas Roy
- Maple Leafs Get: 2027 1st-round pick, 2026 5th-round pick
The Avalanche, sitting atop the league, are trading for depth in their forward line. Roy, while not a superstar, brings experience and defense. This deal raises questions, as many expected Colorado to go for a bigger fish. If Roy is the only move, it might not be enough to bolster their chances for the Cup.
The Maple Leafs are benefiting significantly from this trade, getting great value for a player who didn’t fit into their plans.
Grade: Colorado: C+ | Toronto: A
March 4
Oilers Acquire Jason Dickinson
Trade Details:
- Oilers Get: F Jason Dickinson
- Blackhawks Get: F Andrew Mangiapane, 2027 1st-round pick (top-12 protected)
Edmonton is looking to strengthen its center depth by bringing in Dickinson, a solid two-way player known for effective penalty killing. Chicago is clearing cap space while also stocking up on draft picks—a smart long-term strategy as they rebuild.
Grade: Edmonton: C+ | Chicago: B+
Mammoth Acquire MacKenzie Weegar
Trade Details:
- Mammoth Get: D MacKenzie Weegar
- Flames Get: D Olli Maatta, F Jonathan Castagna, three 2026 2nd-round picks
Weegar adds veteran experience to the Mammoth’s defense. He can handle big minutes and has a reputation for playing tough. The Flames, in contrast, are building for the future with an impressive haul of draft picks, which can help them land new talent.
Grade: Utah: B+ | Calgary: A-
More Insights
Expert opinions indicate that trades like these often hinge on team strategy. Some see the shift toward younger, cheaper players as a way to build for the long term. Recent trends show teams focusing more on quickly developing their draft picks rather than relying solely on established veterans.
Conclusion
These trades are shaping the teams for the playoff push. Each move carries its own implications, both immediate and long-term. Teams are balancing the push for short-term success against the need for sustainable growth.
