What happened: A new report identifies eight NHL clubs seen as likely to be aggressive on the trade market during the 2025-26 offseason. The piece frames each as having the roster flexibility, cap room, or competitive urgency to pursue significant moves once the postseason concludes.

Why it matters: The offseason trade window often reshapes the league's balance of power more than free agency, as contenders chase final pieces and retooling teams move veterans for picks and prospects. Clubs flagged as aggressive set the tone for the wider market, influencing asking prices and timelines around the draft.

What to watch: Watch for which of these teams moves first once the postseason ends, and whether early deals set the cap and asset market for the rest of the offseason.