10 NHL Players Likely to Be Traded at Deadline

From Robert Thomas to Vincent Trocheck, these stars could be on the move by March 6

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The NHL trade deadline is approaching on March 6, and several big-name players are expected to be on the move as contenders look to bolster their rosters for a Stanley Cup run. The Sporting News breaks down 10 of the top players who could be traded, including centers Robert Thomas, Vincent Trocheck, and Nazem Kadri, as well as goaltender Jordan Binnington and defensemen Brandon Carlo and Justin Faulk.

Why it matters

The NHL trade deadline is a critical time for teams to make moves that can significantly impact their chances of winning the Stanley Cup. With several star players potentially available, the next few days could see some blockbuster deals that reshape the league's landscape heading into the playoffs.

The details

Some of the key players who could be on the move include Robert Thomas of the Blues, who is a top-line center with elite vision and playmaking ability; Vincent Trocheck of the Rangers, a two-way center with grit and skill; and Nazem Kadri of the Flames, a veteran center coming off a Stanley Cup win. Goaltender Jordan Binnington of the Blues and defensemen Brandon Carlo of the Maple Leafs and Justin Faulk of the Blues are also rumored to be available. Teams in win-now mode are expected to be aggressive in pursuing these players to bolster their rosters for a championship push.

  • The NHL trade deadline is on March 6, 2026.

The players

Robert Thomas

A 26-year-old center for the St. Louis Blues who is a point-per-game player with elite vision and playmaking ability.

Vincent Trocheck

A 32-year-old center for the New York Rangers who is a two-way player with a blend of skill and sandpaper, fresh off winning a gold medal with Team USA.

Nazem Kadri

A 35-year-old center for the Calgary Flames who leads the team in points and shots, bringing valuable Stanley Cup experience from his time with the Colorado Avalanche.

Jordan Binnington

A goaltender for the St. Louis Blues who has a history of big-game performances, including winning the Stanley Cup as a rookie in 2019.

Brandon Carlo

A 29-year-old defenseman who was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs last season but has struggled with injuries and is now being shopped by the Leafs.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The upcoming NHL trade deadline is shaping up to be an active one, with several high-profile players potentially on the move as contenders look to bolster their rosters for a Stanley Cup push. The deals made over the next few days could have a significant impact on the playoff race and the eventual champion.