As the current NHL season progresses, teams are already looking ahead to the 2025-26 season and potential improvements through trades [10]. Several teams across the league are identified as needing specific upgrades to become true contenders [6]. From bolstering offensive firepower to solidifying defensive cores and goaltending, here's a look at areas some teams may target.
Addressing Key Weaknesses
Multiple teams face critical needs in specific areas. The Philadelphia Flyers, for example, need better goaltending and more offensive skill, despite their attempt to jump-start Trevor Zegras' career [4, 11]. The Buffalo Sabres could use upgrades at every level of their roster, especially after an injury to Joshua Norris disrupted their center position [1, 9]. The Minnesota Wild need more forward depth to boost their offense, especially after consecutive first-round playoff exits [6]. The Tampa Bay Lightning are aiming to add bottom-six forward help to bolster their playoff aspirations [3]. The New Jersey Devils, despite a strong start, could benefit from improved center depth behind Nico Hischier and a healthy Jack Hughes [5, 19].
Goaltending continues to be a crucial area of concern for several teams. Some teams do not need a goalie who will steal games, but they do need somebody to not lose them [3].
Defensive and Offensive Adjustments
Defensive stability is another focal point. The Vancouver Canucks are 22nd in goals against and need to address long-term questions in their defensive unit, especially concerning Tyler Myers and Quinn Hughes [2]. The Dallas Stars have a surplus of left-shot defensemen and need a right-handed shot to balance their pairings [7]. Some teams need more offense to support their existing talent [6]. The Chicago Blackhawks cannot rely solely on Connor Bedard and need to surround him with better offensive talent [8]. The Los Angeles Kings, despite their recent success, initially struggled and needed Adrian Kempe to lead the charge [15]. Even with stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Edmonton Oilers need more scoring depth beyond their top players [12, 18].
TL;DR
- Several NHL teams are already evaluating potential trades to improve their rosters for the 2025-26 season [10].
- Key areas of focus include bolstering goaltending, adding offensive depth, and solidifying defensive cores [4, 6, 2].
- Teams like the Flyers, Sabres, and Wild face specific needs at multiple positions [4, 9, 6].
- The Oilers need to find scoring beyond McDavid and Draisaitl to become true contenders [18].