Five big NHL stars' names headline potential shakeups in the upcoming trade as teams look ahead to major roster decisions
The trade market is already heating up, and five more National Hockey League players are catching attention ahead of the 2026 deadline. Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars), Mario Ferraro (San Jose Sharks), Cole Sillinger (Columbus Blue Jackets), Braden Schneider (New York Rangers), and Rickard Rakell (Pittsburgh Penguins) are all emerging as potential trade chips as their teams weigh cap space, roster depth, and future planning.
Stars' Jason Robertson Pots Trio Of Goals For Natural Hat Trick vs. Oilers
Jason Robertson's future with the Dallas Stars is uncertain
Despite being a cornerstone of the Dallas Stars' offense, Jason Robertson's future isn't set in stone. With Mikko Rantanen added to the roster and a massive contract extension projected for Robertson, Dallas faces a financial puzzle. Trading him could clear space to re-sign defenseman Thomas Harley and invest in more depth. The question is whether the Stars want to take a chance on a new roster structure.
Mario Ferraro could be a fit for defense-hungry teams
Mario Ferraro of the San Jose Sharks might not light up the stat sheet, but his physical style and reliable minutes make him a valuable depth piece.
At 26, he's in his prime and brings experience despite playing high up in a struggling Sharks lineup. Ferraro could thrive in a more balanced system, making him a potential target for contenders looking to bulk up defensively.
Cole Sillinger might be the odd man out in Columbus
The Columbus Blue Jackets are stacked at center, and Cole Sillinger may find himself playing on the wing in 2025-26. Entering the final year of his contract, he faces questions about his long-term role and the value of his contract, if Columbus doesn't see him as part of its future core.
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Sillinger could become a valuable asset on the trade market for teams in need of young forwards.
Player Profiles: Cole Sillinger
Braden Schneider offers trade value for the New York Rangers
The New York Rangers have long held on to Braden Schneider, but the 23-year-old defenseman might be moved as the team navigates a surplus on the right side. Schneider, recovering from surgery, has been primarily used on the bottom pair and is approaching the end of his current contract. If New York wants to retool, Schneider could bring in significant return value.
Rickard Rakell could boost a contender's top six
Rickard Rakell's role with the Pittsburgh Penguins may be nearing its end as the team looks to rebuild around Sidney Crosby. With 35 goals last season and proven offensive upside, Rakell remains a scoring threat; for a team in playoff contention, he could serve as a reliable second-line winger, and the Penguins, meanwhile, could benefit from moving him to gain cap flexibility and younger assets.
Rickard Rakell Goals (2024-25)
As the 2025-26
NHL
season inches closer to opening night on October 7. Teams across the league are already mapping out trade scenarios, with tight salary caps and shifting roster priorities. These five names could headline some of the biggest moves leading up to the 2026 NHL trade deadline.
Also Read:
NHL trade rumors: Flames' Rasmus Andersson linked to potential trade for Stars' $31 million winger in wild proposal
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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