NHL Trade Freeze in Effect: Top Names to Watch Once the Olympic Pause Ends
Who’s Moving After the Olympic Break?
With the NHL’s Olympic roster freeze now in place, league business has officially hit pause. A couple of deals occurred before the unofficial trade deadline, including Artemi Panarin's move to the Los Angeles Kings. With one of the biggest names off the board, no trades can happen until play resumes, creating an 18-day quiet stretch tied to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
But while transactions are on hold, speculation is only heating up ahead of the March 6 trade deadline.
Teams can use this time to determine whether they’ll be sellers and the asking price for the players they’re selling.
Bobby McMann - Toronto Maple Leafs
Bobby McMann is easily Toronto’s most compelling trade story. The pending UFA is someone the Maple Leafs would ideally like to keep, but as a forward trending toward a career high, his timing means he’ll cash in to the tune of about $5 million per season on a new deal.
However, he’s currently a $1.35 million cap hit who brings physicality, secondary scoring, and traits that have caught the attention of clubs like the Edmonton Oilers. The Maple Leafs are reportedly seeking a first-round pick or similar value, but it’s unclear if a team will match the ask.
Anthony Stolarz - Toronto Maple Leafs
Anthony Stolarz is another member of the Maple Leafs who could be on the move. On a recent episode of The Fan Hockey Show, Elliotte Friedman says Stolarz has been brought up in trade talks. Friedman called it an interesting situation, noting that the netminder just extended a few months ago.
He’s playing in a situation where the Leafs can’t afford to lose Dennis Hildeby on waivers, and the organization is likely more committed to Joseph Woll. Similarly, if they’re concerned about his physical health, it’s understandable that the organization may have pivoted away from relying on him.
With Toronto deep in goal, the veteran netminder has surfaced in talks, including possible interest from the Philadelphia Flyers. If the Leafs can move Stolarz’s contract and get any kind of suitable return, he could be on the move.
The Maple Leafs are likely hoping a relatively thin goalie market could make Stolarz a more appealing trade option. Nick Kypreos said that a strong showing before the trade deadline could increase his value. He added, you have to think they'd feel most comfortable moving Stolarz; the return will still have to be worth it.
Logan Stanely - Winnipeg Jets
