Potential Deadline Deals Could See New Life in the Summer

During an appearance on SiriusXM NHL Network Radio, Dave Pagnotta of The Fourth Period discussed the possibility of trade discussions that fell through at the deadline being revived closer to the NHL Draft or on July 1.

The host inquired whether general managers continue to pursue previous trade discussions or explore new player transactions in the period following the deadline, referencing deals that were “left on the table.”

Pagnotta confirmed that details about deadline-era discussions and circulating player names, such as defensemen Darnell Nurse (Edmonton) and Morgan Rielly (Toronto), are surfacing. However, he noted that formal negotiations for these deals are likely deferred until later in the offseason.

Currently, GMs are focused on scouting meetings, draft preparations, and outlining summer plans. While preliminary check-ins might occur, serious negotiations are expected closer to late May, June, and leading up to the draft.

Pagnotta anticipates a busy offseason, unlike the previous one. Given the current free agency landscape, many teams will likely look to fill roster gaps through trades, with major activity expected around the Draft and July 1.