The 2025 NHL trade deadline, which concluded on March 7 at 3 p.m. ET, brought a series of significant moves that reshaped team rosters and playoff prospects.
Major Trades Leading Up to the Deadline
1. Brad Marchand Traded to the Florida Panthers
In a move that surprised many, the Boston Bruins traded their longtime captain and veteran winger, Brad Marchand, to the Florida Panthers. The Bruins received a conditional second-round draft pick in return, which could escalate to a first-rounder if the Panthers advance two playoff rounds and Marchand participates in at least 50% of postseason games. Boston will also retain half of Marchand's salary.
Brad Marchand's 2024-25 Season Stats:
Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points | Plus/Minus |
61 | 21 | 26 | 47 | -8 |
This trade marks the end of Marchand's 16-season tenure with the Bruins, during which he was instrumental in their 2011 Stanley Cup victory. The Panthers, aiming to defend their Stanley Cup title, acquire a seasoned forward with a wealth of playoff experience.
2. Mikko Rantanen's Move to the Dallas Stars
Another headline-grabbing trade involved Mikko Rantanen, who was transferred to the Dallas Stars. This move underscores the Stars' commitment to bolstering their offensive lineup as they gear up for a deep playoff run.
3. Dylan Cozens Acquired by the Ottawa Senators
The Ottawa Senators made a strategic acquisition by trading for forward Dylan Cozens from the Buffalo Sabres. In exchange, the Sabres received forward Josh Norris and defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker. Cozens, 24, has accumulated 31 points in 61 games this season and is in the second year of his seven-year contract.
Notable Mentions
Reilly Smith Returns to the Vegas Golden Knights: The New York Rangers traded Reilly Smith back to the Golden Knights, receiving a third-round pick and center prospect Brendan Brisson in return.
Bruins Initiate Rebuild: Following the Marchand trade, the Bruins signaled a rebuild by trading Trent Frederic to Edmonton, Charlie Coyle to Colorado, and Brandon Carlo to Toronto.
Trade Deadline Overview
The 2025 NHL trade deadline was marked by aggressive moves from teams aiming to strengthen their rosters for the playoffs. The Panthers' acquisition of Marchand and the Stars' addition of Rantanen highlight a competitive landscape as the postseason approaches. Conversely, teams like the Bruins are looking toward the future, opting to rebuild by trading veteran players for prospects and draft picks.
FAQs
Q: When was the 2025 NHL trade deadline?
A: The 2025 NHL trade deadline was on March 7, 2025, at 3 p.m. ET.
Q: Which teams made significant trades at the deadline?
A: Notable trades included Brad Marchand to the Florida Panthers, Mikko Rantanen to the Dallas Stars, and Dylan Cozens to the Ottawa Senators.
Q: What did the Bruins receive in exchange for Brad Marchand?
A: The Bruins received a conditional second-round draft pick, which could become a first-rounder based on the Panthers' playoff performance and Marchand's participation.
Q: How does the trade deadline impact playoff eligibility?
A: Players traded before the deadline are eligible to participate in the playoffs with their new teams.
Q: Were there any other notable trades?
A: Yes, the Rangers traded Reilly Smith to the Golden Knights, and the Bruins traded Trent Frederic, Charlie Coyle, and Brandon Carlo as part of their rebuilding efforts.
Major NHL Trades at the 2025 Deadline
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