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NHL Teams Eye Goalie Trades Before 2026 Deadline

3/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ahead of the March 6, 2026 NHL trade deadline, teams are evaluating goaltender trades to improve playoff chances.
The San Jose Sharks' Alex Nedeljkovic is a notable target, offering stability at a reasonable cost.
The Minnesota Wild are weighing goalie Jesper Wallstedt, a Calder Trophy candidate with impressive stats.
The Pittsburgh Penguins may trade Skinner for draft picks to solidify their goaltending situation.

History

Historical Context

The NHL introduced a salary cap in 2005, limiting team expenditures to $39 million, following a contentious lockout. This shift forced franchises like the San Jose Sharks and Pittsburgh Penguins to adopt cost-effective strategies. As teams now assess goaltenders such as Alex Nedeljkovic and Jesper Wallstedt, they reflect a broader trend towards financial sustainability, impacting future trades and playoff competitiveness.

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Story summary

Ahead of the March 6, 2026 NHL trade deadline, teams are evaluating goaltender trades to improve playoff chances.
The San Jose Sharks' Alex Nedeljkovic is a notable target, offering stability at a reasonable cost.
The Minnesota Wild are weighing goalie Jesper Wallstedt, a Calder Trophy candidate with impressive stats.
The Pittsburgh Penguins may trade Skinner for draft picks to solidify their goaltending situation.

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