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NHL Teams Gear Up for Trade Deadline Moves

1/29/2026

28 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Rangers Pursue Panarin

Ahead of the March 6 trade deadline, the New York Rangers are retooling and weighing a move for Artemi Panarin.
The Islanders strengthened playoff odds by acquiring Ondrej Palat from the Devils and Carson Soucy from the Rangers.
The Columbus Blue Jackets, after a coaching change, are evaluating their position.
The Calgary Flames are exploring trades as Nazem Kadri is open to a move.

Summary

Devils Trade Palat

New Jersey Devils traded Ondrej Palat to New York Islanders for Maxim Tsyplakov, a 2026 third-round pick, and a 2027 sixth-round pick.
Palat, 34, has 10 points in 51 games this season and carries a $6 million cap hit.
The Devils aimed to clear cap space as they have underperformed.
The Islanders seek a playoff push with Tsyplakov, a 27-year-old forward with a $2.25 million cap hit.

History

Historical Context

The NHL introduced a salary cap in 2005 after a lockout, reshaping team strategies and player transactions. This cap, exemplified by the New Jersey Devils' $6 million hit for Ondrej Palat, imposes financial constraints that influence trades, particularly as teams like the Islanders and Rangers prepare for the March 6 deadline. This system continues to impact competitive balance in the league.

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Rangers Pursue Panarin

Ahead of the March 6 trade deadline, the New York Rangers are retooling and weighing a move for Artemi Panarin.
The Islanders strengthened playoff odds by acquiring Ondrej Palat from the Devils and Carson Soucy from the Rangers.
The Columbus Blue Jackets, after a coaching change, are evaluating their position.
The Calgary Flames are exploring trades as Nazem Kadri is open to a move.

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