NHL Offseason Trade Candidate Rankings: Top Targets for 2024

Trades have been picking up again in the NHL lately. Last week’s top trade candidate on our list, Yaroslav Askarov, was traded by the Predators to the Sharks. This was after former top trade targets Patrik Laine and Rutger McGroarty were moved the week before. With this, it is quite possible that we could see more trades go down before the start of the campaign. 

As a result, let’s discuss the top 10 trade candidates for the 2024 NHL Offseason now. 

NHL Trade Candidate Rankings

1. Nick Robertson – Maple Leafs 

Earlier this summer, Nick Robertson requested a trade from the Maple Leafs. He has yet to be moved at this point, but that very well could change. It was recently reported that Robertson is still looking for a change of scenery, naturally making him a player to watch over the next few weeks. The young forward should generate interest around the league, as he has the tools to become a top-six forward in the future. He also had a career year in 2023-24, recording 14 goals and 27 points in 56 games.

2. Trevor Zegras – Ducks 

The Ducks listened to offers for star forward Trevor Zegras this past season, and it carried over to the summer. The Ducks have several young forwards with great upside in their system, so Zegras could be made expendable if it means adding a star defenseman.

3. Nikolaj Ehlers – Jets 

Nikolaj Ehlers is generating a lot of attention in trade chatter. After an early exit in the playoffs, the Jets are set to make some moves, and Ehlers is their top trade candidate. He has made it known that he does not wish to sign an extension, so the Jets have looked to move him. The Islanders, Kraken, Senators, and Hurricanes have all been linked to him this offseason. 

4. Kaapo Kakko – Rangers 

Kaapo Kakko has once again been a popular name in the rumor mill this offseason. The former top prospect has had trouble cementing himself as a top-six winger and struggled in 2023-24. With the Rangers looking to win, they could move Kakko to help land a player who will make them better immediately. 

5. Calle Jarnkrok – Maple Leafs  

With the Maple Leafs needing to free up cap space, Calle Jarnkrok has been starting to create a good amount of chatter in the rumor mill. The Maple Leafs are reportedly listening to offers for the veteran forward, and he could be a decent player for clubs needing a boost on their third line. It also does not hurt that he can play all three forward positions.  

6. David Savard – Canadiens 

Canadiens defenseman David Savard was a popular player in the rumor mill leading up to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline but stayed put. However, when noting that the Canadiens are rebuilding and Savard is entering the final year of his deal, he undoubtedly is a player to watch in trade talks yet again. Some clubs who have been connected to him in the past include the Oilers, Avalanche, and Stars.

7. Scott Laughton – Flyers 

Flyers forward Scott Laughton was one of the NHL’s top trade candidates this past season but did not get moved. However, with the Flyers rebuilding and Laughton being a veteran with plenty of trade value, he could be moved for the right price, whether during the summer or this upcoming season. 

8. Frank Vatrano – Ducks 

Frank Vatrano had a sensational year for the Ducks in 2023-24, posting new career highs with 37 goals, 23 assists, and 60 points. Teams around the NHL expressed interest in him this past season, and that should carry over to next season. This is especially so when noting that the Massachusetts native is entering the final season of his deal. 

9. Conor Timmins – Maple Leafs 

Conor Timmins has become the odd man out on the Maple Leafs’ blueline. Because of this, the right-shot defender is reportedly available for the right price. A team looking for help on the right side of their blueline could consider taking a flier on the 26-year-old. 

10. Oliver Wahlstrom – Islanders 

Oliver Wahlstrom has been in the rumor mill for quite some time, but the Islanders have yet to find him a new home. It is understandable that he has been made available, as he has become the odd man out in their forward group. However, given that he is a former first-rounder who has shown promise in the past, there could be a club out there willing to take a shot on him. 

Who’s the Top NHL Trade Candidate for the 2024 offseason?

With Yaroslav Askarov being traded, Nick Robertson is now the NHL’s top trade candidate during the final weeks of the offseason. The young forward is still hoping to be traded and could be a strong addition to a club needing help on the wing. At 22 years old, the skilled winger still has the potential to take that next step and blossom into a top-six forward.