Top 5 trade bait targets to keep an eye on as the NHL trade deadline approaches

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, front offices are starting to sort through attitudes and realities. While not every team has yet determined whether it is a buyer or seller, league executives already are doing so circle names they believe this could change the picture of the playoffs. From top-pair defenders to versatile mid-six forwards, this year’s trade market offers some intrigue on many fronts.

Here are five players emerging as legitimate trade bait as deadline talk heats up.

Regardless of where the Flames end up in the standings, Rasmus Andersson’s name will continue to pop up in trade talks. Calgary has listened quietly to the 29-year-old defenseman, and the league consensus suggests he is more likely to be moved than retained long-term.

Andersson’s value comes from his versatility. He can log heavy minutes, run a power play and handle tough matchups, all for a manageable cap hit of $4.55 million. For contenders looking for a stabilizing presence on the right side, he checks every box.

Potential landing sites:

• Toronto maple leaves: A long-term answer behind Morgan Rielly
• New Jersey Devils: Insurance for a playoff push with inconsistency on the blue line
• Detroit Red Wings: A play-off-tested upgrade with cost certainty

Kiefer Sherwood is quietly becoming one of the more interesting depth players on the market. Vancouver has not wavered in its price and has continued to hold on a first-round draft pick or a similar asset, even though Sherwood is set to become an unrestricted free agent.

The appeal lies in Sherwood’s ability to play multiple roles. This is a player who can bring playoff-level speed, forecheck pressure and physical play – all factors that are often overrated when it comes to the trade deadline, not underestimated.

Potential landing sites:

• Vegas Golden Knights: Familiar with this type of player and willing to pay
• Colorado avalanche: Deep score and energy for another run
• Boston Bruins: Fitting with their bottom six identity

Dougie Hamilton is the biggest swing on this list. His $9 million cap hit and 10-team no-trade list make things tough, but New Jersey has been exploring moving him since the offseason. If New Jersey decides to reshape its roster instead of adjusting its edges, Hamilton could become available for one of its favored destinations.

He remains a legitimate top-pairing defenseman who can run the offense from the back when healthy. In any transaction, there would likely be retention or salary shifting in the other direction.

Potential landing sites:

• Dallas stars: A win-now team with maximum creativity
• Carolina Hurricanes: A familiar system and a known comfort level
• Detroit Red Wings: Blue-line attack to support a rising core

Alex Tuch, LW – Buffalo Sabres

The Sabers would prefer not to trade Alex Tuch, but circumstances may leave them no choice. The team’s new general manager Jarmo Kekäläinen is said to want a solution to Tuch’s status as soon as possible and make him the highest-paid striker with a long-term extension.

If negotiations stall, Buffalo could focus on maximizing value. Tuch’s size, speed and playoff experience make him a coveted winger for teams looking to add punch without sacrificing structure.

Potential landing sites:

• New York Rangers: A powerful winger suited for playoff hockey
• Kings from Los Angeles: Support for top six scores
• Edmonton oil machines: Added offensive depth

Brayden Schenn’s name has been floating around since last season’s deadline and the interest hasn’t died down. St. Louis continues to listen, and while Schenn has some control over his future, there is growing belief that something could happen if the right deal comes along.

His leadership, versatility and postseason resume make him a strong draw, especially for teams that need center depth or a forward who can move up and down the lineup.

Potential landing sites:

• New York Islanders: Instant relief through the middle
• Colorado avalanche: Championship style depth
• Montreal Canadians: Playoff experience for a young group

Next: Latest NHL Trade Buzz: Oilers, Canucks and big names on the Trade Board