Winners and losers from 2026 NHL trade deadline
theScore.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Anaheim Ducks made a major deadline move by acquiring elite right-shot defenseman John Carlson from Washington Capitals, significantly boosting their roster with a top-pair defenseman and power-play quarterback.
- Nazem Kadri returned to the Colorado Avalanche, reuniting with a familiar team and strengthening their center depth, while Corey Perry rejoined the Tampa Bay Lightning to add experienced bottom-six forward depth.
- Early sellers traded mid-level players for valuable draft picks, with notable deals including Winnipeg Jets acquiring promising prospect Isak Rosen from Buffalo Sabres, highlighting the trend of contenders adding size and playoff experience near the deadline.
- Carolina Hurricanes were criticized for minimal activity at the deadline, missing opportunities to upgrade key positions like second-line center and goalie, which
