The NHL trade deadline is March 6th, and player movement can happen prior to the league’s Olympic break from February 6th to February 24th. If teams want to ensure they get a head start on securing their rosters for the final playoff push, the next two weeks can bring plenty of player movement.

The Dallas Stars are a prime example of a team in desperate need of player acquisitions. Here are the top 10 players who could be traded before the deadline.

Pettersson’s production doesn’t match his contract. However, Vancouver already traded its best player in Quinn Hughes, and a fire sale is likely to happen. Prior to last season, Pettersson had three consecutive seasons with 30+ goals scored. If they can find a team to take on his contract, Pettersson can find himself rejuvenated and playing for a contender.

9. Steven Stamkos, Nashville PredatorsJan 22, 2026; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators center Steven Stamkos (91) skates with the puck against the Ottawa Senators during the first period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

If Nashville falls too far from playoff contention, Stamkos will be a sought-after veteran. A month shy of his 36th birthday, the veteran continues to find the back of the net. The Dallas Stars and Pittsburgh Penguins are teams to watch if Steven Stamkos becomes available.

8. Boone Jenner, Columbus Blue Jackets

Jenner is in the last year of his contract, but he provides depth to teams in the playoff hunt. The left winger hasn’t played in more than 60 games since the 2022-2023 season, but has stayed healthy for the better part of this season. A team looking for a gritty, defensive-minded winger will be all in on acquiring Boone Jenner.

7.  Justin Faulk, St. Louis Blues

Faulk can provide vital depth on a team’s second line. He’s highly productive, given his ability to block shots and play big-time minutes. The defenseman is on pace for a career-best in goals scored and assists.

6. Blake Coleman, Calgary Flames

Coleman is a veteran who has won two Stanley Cups. He’s two seasons removed from his career-best campaign and provides veteran depth to any team in the playoff hunt. Calgary will be a seller, and teams expect Coleman to be one of its first players dealt.

5. Brayden Schenn, St. Louis BluesJan 16, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Blues center Brayden Schenn (10) skates against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Le-Imagn Images

Schenn isn’t producing as he has in years past, but his shot percentage is above his career average. The veteran center has one year of control after the 2025-2026 season, and this will intrigue numerous teams. A playoff team, looking to add depth, could provide the rejuvenation Schenn needs.

4. Vincent Trocheck, New York Rangers

New York is quickly falling out of playoff contention, and now is the time to start its fire sale. Trocheck is on his way to a fifth consecutive season with 20+ goals and fits the need of any team in play for a top-end center. The Rangers’ center is a name that will be traded before the NHL Olympic pause.

3. Nazem Kadri, Calgary Flames

Kadri has produced decent numbers during his time with Calgary. However, his numbers have taken a hit in his fourth season with the Flames. Playoff teams will be eager to acquire the veteran center’s services. The question is, which team will be willing to eat his salary cap hit through the 2028-2029 season?

2. Dougie Hamilton, New Jersey DevilsJan 25, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton (7) skates with the puck during the first period against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Blake Dahlin-Imagn Images

Hamilton will be the best available defenseman, but his $9mil cap hit goes through the 2027-2028 season. The Devils will have to eat a chunk of his salary, but his services will be in demand after posting 40 points a season ago. Hamilton is an ideal fit for a team like the Dallas Stars.

1. Artemi Panarin, New York Rangers

One of the league’s premier playmakers over the last few seasons, Panarin has a full no-trade clause. However, a move to a playoff-bound team could entice the left winger. New York will need to eat a portion of his contract while getting the greenlight from Panarin himself, but he will be the top name to acquire ahead of the trade deadline.

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