NHL Rumors: 4 Teams That Could Become Sellers This Season
With the salary cap set to rise and the 2026 draft class looking deep, Amato suggests these franchises might use the opportunity to offload veterans and restock their prospect cupboards if their seasons go sideways.
For Nashville, that could mean moving big names like Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Ryan O’Reilly. Both Stamkos and Marchessault hold no-trade protection, but with the Predators stuck in neutral and their playoff outlook dim, they may waive for a chance to chase another Stanley Cup.
O’Reilly, without protection, could be one of the easier pieces for a contender to add.
Penguins, Flames Could Test Market for Veterans
The Pittsburgh Penguins find themselves in an awkward position; they're not good enough to contend, not bad enough to bottom out. Amato argues that if Pittsburgh truly wants to position itself for the 2026 draft lottery, moving veterans beyond Erik Karlsson, such as Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell, would be logical.
Even long-time star Evgeni Malkin could consider one last playoff run elsewhere if this is indeed his final year in the NHL.
Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames are already expected to shop Rasmus Andersson, but Amato sees a larger sell-off as possible.
With a premium on centers, Nazem Kadri could command interest despite his contract, and Blake Coleman’s playoff pedigree makes him another trade chip. Calgary nearly made the postseason last year, but if they stumble, the market could dictate a reset.
Bruins a Wild Card Seller Candidate
The Boston Bruins are the final team on Amato’s list. After missing the playoffs last year, they could use this season as a soft reset while keeping their young core intact.
Trade chips like Pavel Zacha, Viktor Arvidsson, Sean Kuraly, and Andrew Peeke could fetch picks and prospects, allowing Boston to retool without a full rebuild. With David Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy still in their primes, the Bruins could weather a short downturn and emerge stronger if they cash in on those assets.
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