Trade Predictions for the 2026-27 NHL Season
Jonas Siegel of The Athletic predicted Toronto will trade for Columbus defenseman Zach Werenski, while Fluto Shinzawa forecast Boston moving Pavel Zacha and Shayna Goldman expected Tampa Bay to add a top-four blueliner. Frank Seravalli of Sportsnet projected Detroit center Dylan Larkin would be sent to Minnesota before Christmas. Spector noted that Toronto may lack the assets for a Werenski bid, Boston could re-sign Zacha, Tampa Bay has cap room but few trade chips, and Detroit's asking price could block a Larkin deal.
The Athletic's writers offered separate forecasts: Toronto acquiring Columbus's Zach Werenski, Boston moving Pavel Zacha, and Tampa Bay adding a top-four defenseman. Spector cautioned Toronto may no longer have enough trade pieces after dealing Matthew Knies for Kirill Marchenko, while Boston might keep Zacha if young centers Fraser Minten and James Hagens develop well.
Tampa Bay could have more than $9 million in deadline cap room, but it lacks a 2027 first-rounder and its prospect pool was ranked 25th by Corey Pronman. Sportsnet's Frank Seravalli also projected Detroit sending Dylan Larkin to Minnesota before Christmas; Spector noted Detroit's desire for a top-six forward, with Matt Boldy unavailable, could prevent that.
These predictions may shape fan expectations and media discussion more than actual outcomes. Players named could face added scrutiny or uncertainty, while supporters of Toronto, Boston, Tampa Bay, Detroit, Minnesota, and Columbus may debate roster direction. If deals occur, they could alter team competitiveness and ticket demand, but rumors alone often have limited real-world effect beyond online engagement and talk-radio chatter.