NHL Trade Deadline Grades: Seattle Kraken

Daniel Sprong of the Seattle Kraken celebrates a goal against Anaheim on March 7, 2023. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

The Seattle Kraken made a clear shift at the trade deadline, transitioning from a team on the fringes of contention to one focused on building for the future. They moved out several veteran players, accumulating a significant amount of draft capital in the process. While the return is impressive, the timing and execution raise some questions.

What the Kraken Gave Up:

  • Yanni Gourde (F)
  • Oliver Bjorkstrand (F)
  • Brandon Tanev (F)
  • Daniel Sprong (F)
  • 2026 Fifth-Round Pick

What the Kraken Acquired:

  • Michael Eyssimont (F)
  • 2025 Second-Round Pick (from Toronto via Tampa Bay)
  • 2026 First-Round Pick (from Tampa Bay, top-10 protected)
  • 2026 Sixth-Round Pick (from New Jersey)
  • 2027 First-Round Pick (from Tampa Bay, top-10 protected)
  • 2027 Second-Round Pick (from Winnipeg)

The Verdict:

The Kraken’s decision to trade Gourde, Bjorkstrand, and Tanev signals a clear rebuild. The return of two first-round picks and two second-round picks is a substantial haul, providing the team with valuable assets for the future.

However, the timing of this shift is questionable. The Kraken were reportedly focused on competing for a playoff spot this season, despite their underwhelming performance. The fact that they committed to a rebuild mid-season indicates a potential miscalculation of their team’s capabilities.

The acquisition of Michael Eyssimont adds depth, but the focus was clearly on draft picks. GM Ron Francis’s stated intention to use these picks as trade capital to acquire NHL-ready talent is a promising strategy, but its success remains to be seen.

The team received a very good return for the players traded. Getting a second round pick for Brandon Tanev, with no salary retention, is a great move. Also getting any return at all for Daniel Sprong is a win.

The criticism that more could have been done is valid. With the high demand for players, exploring trades for players like Jamie Oleksiak and Jaden Schwartz could have yielded even greater returns.

Francis’s use of injuries as a partial excuse for the team’s struggles is also problematic. While injuries are a factor, relying on them as a primary justification undermines the need for roster depth and resilience.

The conditional nature of the first-round picks from Tampa Bay adds an element of risk. The top-10 protection could result in a delayed return, impacting the team’s rebuilding timeline.

Ultimately, the Kraken’s deadline was a successful accumulation of draft capital, but the strategic decision making could have been improved.

Final Grade: B- – The Kraken secured a strong return in draft picks, but the timing and execution of their rebuild, along with the reliance on injury excuses, warrant a slightly lower grade.

NHL Trade Deadline Grades: Tampa Bay Lightning

Thanks to the Lightning, we have the hardest quote to come out of the NHL this year, and that came from Lightning GM Julien BriseBois as he responded to probes about trading away draft picks:

“Ultimately, the calculation is that trying & failing will yield less regret than failing to try.”

So tough.

The Lightning, ever the aggressive contenders, made a significant splash at the trade deadline, acquiring Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand in a bold move to bolster their forward depth. While the cost was substantial, the Lightning’s intent was clear: maximize their current window of contention.

https://twitter.com/robcutmore/status/1897835538264342736

What the Lightning Gave Up:

  • Michael Eyssimont (F)
  • 2026 First-Round Pick (top-10 protected)
  • 2027 First-Round Pick (top-10 protected)
  • 2025 Second-Round Pick (from Toronto)

What the Lightning Acquired:

  • Yanni Gourde (F)
  • Oliver Bjorkstrand (F)
  • Kyle Aucoin (D)
  • 2026 Fifth-Round Pick

Yanni Gourde is back with the Tampa Bay Lightning (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)

The Verdict:

The Lightning’s primary objective was to add two-way forward depth, and they achieved that with the acquisitions of Gourde and Bjorkstrand. Both players bring proven scoring ability and playoff experience, addressing a clear need for the team.

However, the price was steep. Trading two first-round picks, a second-round pick, and Michael Eyssimont is a significant investment. The justification lies in the Lightning’s desire to capitalize on their current core, which is still performing at an elite level. The logic is understandable: betting on proven talent is preferable to the uncertainty of draft picks, especially when the team’s window of contention is finite.

Gourde’s return is a sentimental one, and his familiarity with the team should ease his integration. Bjorkstrand provides consistent scoring and will be under contract for another playoff run, adding value beyond this season. The salary retention by the Kraken and Red Wings is a shrewd move by GM Julien BriseBois, mitigating the team’s perennial cap constraints. Throughout the process, BriseBois

The addition of Kyle Aucoin, while seemingly a minor detail, aligns with the Lightning’s history of finding value in overlooked players. While his future is uncertain, it’s a low-risk, potentially high-reward addition.

The analysis correctly points out the bias that can be caused by the previous Jeannot trade. Any move that is not as costly as that one, will seem like a win. Also the fact that Gourde and Bjorkstrand have already played a game and contributed to a win, adds to the positive feeling of this trade.

While the Lightning addressed their needs, the long-term cost is a concern. The loss of multiple high draft picks could impact the team’s future. However, for a team focused on winning now, the gamble is justifiable.

Ultimately, the Lightning’s deadline was a bold move that reflects their commitment to contending. The acquisitions of Gourde and Bjorkstrand significantly improve their forward depth, and the team’s ability to navigate the cap constraints is commendable.

Final Grade: B+ – The Lightning made a significant investment in their present, acquiring valuable forward depth. While the long-term cost is a factor, the immediate impact and strategic maneuvering justify a strong grade.

NHL Trade Deadline Grades: Toronto Maple Leafs

Credit: NHLI via Getty Images

The Toronto Maple Leafs, under the watchful eye of GM Brad Treliving, aimed to address crucial gaps in their roster as they load up for another playoff run- namely a third-line center and defensive depth. They did so pretty well by acquiring Brandon Carlo from the Bruins and Scott Laughton from the Flyers. While the moves certainly add some grit, the question remains: is it enough to truly contend in the cutthroat Atlantic Division?

What the Maple Leafs Gave Up:

  • First-round picks and prospects: The exact nature of these are not stated, but the cost was clearly high.

What the Maple Leafs Acquired:

  • Brandon Carlo (D): A 6-foot-5, 220-pound right-shooting defenseman.
  • Scott Laughton (C/LW): A versatile forward with penalty-killing prowess.

https://twitter.com/Leafslatest/status/1898116975772983769

The Verdict:

Carlo is undeniably the crown jewel of this deadline for the Leafs. He addresses a long-standing need for a reliable partner for Morgan Rielly, providing size, stability, and a strong defensive presence. His contract, running for two more seasons at $3.48 million, is also a significant asset. The Leafs’ top-four defense now looks way more robust, with Carlo complementing Rielly and Tanev anchoring the other pair.

Brandon Carlo | (Photo Credit: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

However, Laughton’s acquisition leaves more to be desired. While he brings versatility and penalty-killing skill, his fit as a true third-line center is questionable. The Leafs have struggled to fill this role, and Laughton feels like a stopgap rather than a definitive solution. The fact that Philadelphia retained half of his salary is a positive, but it doesn’t change the fundamental question of his suitability.

Treliving’s insistence that these moves weren’t a direct response to the Panthers and Lightning’s acquisitions rings somewhat hollow. In a division where those two teams are aggressively loading up, simply “being aware” isn’t enough. The Leafs needed to make bold moves, and while Carlo is a significant addition, Laughton feels less impactful.

The decision by the Bruins to trade Carlo within the division is perplexing. It provides a significant boost to a direct rival, which raises questions about their own strategic thinking. There was also some rumours that Mitch Marner may be available, though Treliving said afterwards he wants Marner in Toronto for the long-haul.

The pressure is now squarely on the players. Auston Matthews’ public desire for reinforcements has been met, but the real test lies in their ability to perform in the postseason. The remaining games against the Panthers and Lightning will be crucial in determining the Leafs’ playoff seeding and potential matchups.

Ultimately, the Leafs’ deadline was a mixed bag. Carlo is a home run, but Laughton feels like a less decisive move. The team has improved, but whether it’s enough to overcome their formidable division rivals remains to be seen.

Final Grade: B- – Carlo’s acquisition is a major win, but the uncertainty surrounding Laughton and the overall response to the division’s arms race leaves room for doubt.

NHL Trade Deadline Grades: Vancouver Canucks

Well, that was a big buildup for a giant pot of nothing.

Canucks’ forward Brock Boeser | Wilfredo Lee /AP

The Vancouver Canucks approached the trade deadline with the intent to both sell expiring contracts and buy younger players with term. In the end, they did neither. The team moved defenseman Carson Soucy to the Rangers for a third-round pick but failed to make any other significant moves, despite reportedly shopping Brock Boeser. General manager Patrik Allvin cited a lack of market interest, but the inaction left many questioning Vancouver’s approach.

What the Canucks Gave Up:

  • Carson Soucy (D) – A third-pairing defenseman who was no longer in the team’s long-term plans.

What the Canucks Acquired:

  • 2025 Third-Round Pick – Acquired from the Rangers in the Soucy trade.

The Verdict:

Vancouver’s deadline was underwhelming, to say the least. Boeser, who was supposedly a prime trade chip, remained with the team after no one met the Canucks’ asking price of a first-round pick. While keeping him isn’t necessarily a bad move, Allvin’s public comments about the lack of offers raised eyebrows and likely didn’t sit well with the player.

The decision to move Soucy but keep other pending free agents like Pius Suter and Derek Forbort was puzzling. If Vancouver was serious about making a playoff push, holding onto Boeser and Suter makes sense, but their deadline activity—or lack thereof—suggests indecision rather than a clear strategy.

The biggest issue wasn’t just the minimal moves but the messaging behind them. Allvin’s claim that there was “not a whole lot of market return” on Vancouver’s players was surprising, considering how much of a seller’s market this deadline turned out to be. Other teams offloaded assets at high prices, yet the Canucks were unable to capitalize.

The Canucks’ current position—just outside the playoff picture—complicates things further. If they miss the playoffs, this deadline will be viewed as a massive failure, with no meaningful reinforcements or future assets gained. If they sneak in, the lack of moves still suggests a team content with mediocrity rather than one aggressively building toward contention.

Ultimately, Vancouver’s deadline was defined by hesitation. Whether the goal was to improve for the short term or build for the future, they failed to take decisive action in either direction and rather than answer questions, only created more.

Final Grade: D- – A lack of urgency and questionable messaging make this one of the worst deadlines in the league.

NHL Trade Deadline Grades: Edmonton Oilers

Edmonton Oilers left wing Zach Hyman (18) celebrates his goal with teammates during the second period in game six of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final. Sergei Belski/USA Today Sports/Reuters

The Edmonton Oilers made some solid additions at the NHL Trade Deadline but stopped short of making a blockbuster move. General manager Stan Bowman brought in defenseman Jake Walman and forwards Trent Frederic and Max Jones, addressing key areas of need. While these moves improve the roster, the Oilers fell short of adding a top-six forward or goaltending help, leaving questions about whether they did enough to contend.

What the Oilers Gave Up:

  • Carl Berglund – A 25-year-old AHL forward with limited NHL upside.
  • Max Wanner – A promising defensive prospect.
  • Shane Lachance – A depth forward prospect.
  • 2025 Second-Round Pick – Sent to Boston in the Frederic trade.
  • 2026 Fourth-Round Pick – Additional compensation for Frederic and Jones.
  • Conditional 2026 First-Round Pick – Sent to San Jose in the Walman deal.

What the Oilers Acquired:

  • Jake Walman (D) – A puck-moving defenseman with offensive upside.
  • Trent Frederic (F) – A big, physical forward who adds grit and versatility.
  • Max Jones (F) – A depth forward who provides size and energy.

Edmonton’s newly-acquired Max Jones defends the puck from a Dallas Stars defender | Photo credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

The Verdict:

Walman is the standout addition. His ability to move the puck and contribute offensively makes him a strong fit in Edmonton’s system. He’s not a shutdown defenseman, but his skating and transition play should help the Oilers avoid getting hemmed in against forechecking teams.

Defenceman Jake Walman, pictured with the San Jose Sharks, plays against the Nashville Predators during the second period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (Mark Humphrey/AP)

Frederic is another solid pickup. He plays a heavy game, leads the Oilers in hits, and can chip in offensively. His numbers are down this year, but if he rediscovers his scoring touch, he could be a key piece in the bottom six. Jones is more of a depth addition but has already impressed with his energy and forechecking.

However, the Oilers failed to land a top-six winger or goaltending help—two areas that could haunt them come playoff time. They reportedly pursued Mikko Rantanen and Rickard Rakell but couldn’t get a deal done. The team also didn’t find a fourth-line center, though internal options exist.

Ultimately, the Oilers improved, but not as much as they could have. Given how aggressive teams like the Stars and Avalanche were, Edmonton’s relatively modest approach may not be enough.

Final Grade: C+ – A solid but unspectacular deadline that leaves the Oilers with lingering questions.

DK Metcalf Traded to Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a major splash, acquiring star wide receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2025 second-round pick. The trade comes just days after Metcalf requested a move, signaling the end of his six-year tenure in Seattle.

Getty Images

Trade Details:

Steelers receive:

  • WR DK Metcalf

Seahawks receive:

  • 2025 second-round pick (No. 52 overall)

Seattle initially sought a first-round pick for Metcalf but ultimately lowered its asking price when no teams met their demands. The move leaves the Seahawks without two franchise cornerstones at receiver, as Tyler Lockett was also let go earlier in the offseason. Jaxon Smith-Njigba now steps into the WR1 role, though Seattle may use a high draft pick to bolster its receiving corps.

https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1898885050269053159

Steelers Land a Star Target

Metcalf, 27, instantly upgrades a Steelers offense that struggled with consistency last season. The physical, 6’4” wideout has been a reliable playmaker since entering the league in 2019, posting three 1,000-yard seasons and making two Pro Bowls. In 2024, he recorded 66 catches for 992 yards and five touchdowns in 15 games.

Upon joining the Steelers, Metcalf agreed to a five-year, $150 million contract extension, solidifying his future in Pittsburgh. His arrival gives the Steelers a much-needed No. 1 receiver, forming a formidable duo with George Pickens. However, questions remain about who will be throwing them the ball. The Steelers are still evaluating their quarterback options, with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields as potential starters.

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1898887526313562205

What This Means for Both Teams

For Pittsburgh, this move signals their intent to upgrade their offense and compete in the AFC. Their passing attack lacked explosiveness last season, and Metcalf provides an instant deep threat with his elite speed and physicality.

For Seattle, the trade marks the end of an era. Metcalf was drafted in 2019 and quickly became a fan favorite, but the Seahawks appear focused on retooling for the future. With Geno Smith’s long-term status uncertain and an aging core, Seattle’s front office is likely looking ahead to a reset.

Metcalf’s move to Pittsburgh is one of the biggest trades of the offseason, giving the Steelers an elite weapon while leaving the Seahawks with a major hole to fill. Now, all eyes are on Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation to see if they can maximize their new star receiver.

NHL Trade Deadline Grades: Detroit Red Wings

Detroit’s Jake Walman (Sergei Belski-Imagn Images)

The Detroit Red Wings took a measured approach at the trade deadline, making a single move while their Atlantic Division rivals went all-in. General Manager Steve Yzerman traded forward Joe Veleno to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for veteran forward Craig Smith and goaltender Petr Mrázek. While not a flashy move, it does provide Detroit with additional experience and depth as they look to secure a playoff spot.

What the Red Wings Gave Up:

  • Joe Veleno – A young, speedy forward who struggled to carve out a consistent role in Detroit.

What the Red Wings Acquired:

  • Craig Smith – A veteran forward with nearly 1,000 NHL games under his belt. Smith is expected to bolster the bottom-six with his hard-nosed play and offensive depth.
  • Petr Mrázek – A familiar face in Detroit, Mrázek returns to the Red Wings after stints with Carolina, Toronto, and Chicago. The veteran netminder provides goaltending depth and experience, though his recent struggles raise questions about his effectiveness.

The Verdict:

Detroit finds itself in a tough spot in the playoff race, battling with the likes of Montreal, Buffalo, and Ottawa for a wild card berth. While this trade adds veteran leadership and some short-term benefits, it pales in comparison to the aggressive moves made by their division rivals.

Craig Smith is a reliable bottom-six addition, bringing playoff experience and a hard-working mentality. He should provide a boost to Detroit’s depth scoring, something the team has lacked this season.

The more puzzling part of the deal is Mrázek. While he had a strong season in Chicago last year, his numbers this season have dipped significantly. With an .890 save percentage and a goals-against average among the worst in the league, it’s unclear if he can provide the stability Detroit needs in net. That said, returning to a more structured team might help him regain form, and he does provide a veteran presence behind Cam Talbot and Alex Lyon.

While this move gives the Red Wings some needed experience, it doesn’t significantly alter their playoff chances. If Mrázek can rebound and Smith contributes solid depth minutes, this trade could be a quiet win. However, with other teams in the division making major upgrades, Detroit may regret not being more aggressive.

Final Grade: C – A decent move for depth, but unlikely to move the needle in a competitive playoff race.

Seahawks Re-Sign LB Ernest Jones to 3-year, $33 million extension: STEAL

It’s official.

Dec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV (13) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Ernest Jones has found a home, now on his third team in a calendar year. The Seahawks have re-signed Jones to a 3-year extension worth $33 million, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday.

After being traded from the Los Angeles Rams to the Tennessee Titans last summer, Jones was traded again in October to the Seahawks. This move came after first-year head coach Mike Macdonald sought changes within his linebacker group. Jones quickly flourished in Macdonald’s defense, making his return a high priority for general manager John Schneider this offseason.

A 2021 NFL Draft third-round selection by the Rams, Jones was a star in Super Bowl LVI, racking up seven tackles, a sack, three QB hits, and two tackles for loss in their win over the Bengals. After back-to-back 100-plus tackle seasons, it was a bit of a head-scratcher when the Rams traded him. Then, after a quick pit stop in Tennessee, he was on the move again. Clearly, they weren’t planning on keeping him long-term.

In 10 games for the Seahawks, Jones posted 94 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, and two pass breakups. As a Seahawks fan, though, the numbers don’t fully capture his impact. It was a clear fit for both the player and the team, and Seattle fans got to see first-hand the significant difference Jones made to the defense.

Before Jones showed up, the run defense was… well, let’s just say it was having a rough time. Linebackers Tyrell Dodson and Jerome Baker, both signed in the previous offseason, were gone by mid-season. Macdonald put his faith in Jones and rookie fourth-rounder Tyrice Knight, who stepped up big time.

Now, let’s talk about that contract. In my humble opinion? It’s a steal. Compare it to Zach Baun’s deal with the Eagles. Sure, Baun’s season was technically a bit better, but they’re in the same ballpark. Baun snagged a 3-year, $51 million deal in Philly—almost $20 million more than what Seattle paid for Jones.

At just 25, with four seasons under his belt, Jones was already No. 25 on Gregg Rosenthal’s Top 101 free agents list. But he’s staying put in Seattle, ready to keep those tackle numbers climbing for years to come

Seattle Seahawks to Meet with Aaron Rodgers to Discuss QB Vacancy

Well, the Darnold rumours have quieted down, but a new name has emerged in the Seahawks QB hunt saga. Aaron Rodgers, former Jets and Packers QB, is reportedly set to meet with the team to discuss the opening in Seattle.

Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The Seahawks just lost their starting quarterback in Geno Smith as he was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders to be reunited with former coach Pete Carroll. Could Rodgers be the answer?

Not in the long-term, anyway. Rodgers is 41 and coming off a comeback season that saw him rebound from a torn ACL at the ripe age of 40. But, if you ask me, he’s still got it, and honestly a one or two year deal in Seattle wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world. 

After his Hall-Of-Fame tenure in Green Bay came to an end, the 17-year cheese head took off for the Big Apple in 2023 free agency and signed with the Jets, who were expected to be a contender with an elite defence, talented offence and Rodgers filling the void at QB. That story quickly took a turn when Rodgers played just four snaps in his first game at MetLife Stadium before tearing his ACL. 

Rodgers would return for the following season and put together respectable numbers: nearly 3900 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions; but the Jets finished 5-12 and it was another disappointing result for the green machine. 

Now we shift to Seattle, who is mulling over a handful of options to fill their gap at QB. Sam Darnold was reportedly the favorite to land in Seattle after his breakout season last year in Minnesota, but talks have quieted on that front. Another option for Seattle is the 2025 NFL Entry Draft, but this year’s class is lacking in quarterback talent compared to most others. If Seattle relies on the draft to get a QB who can come in and play on day one, fans may need to start looking ahead for the long-term future as that would signal at the very least, a soft-rebuild. 

2nd year Seahawks Head Coach Mike Macdonald addresses the media | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Rodgers could be a reasonable stop-gap option if Seattle does draft a QB who they hope can sit and develop for a year or two. Rodgers is as good a mentor as any: see Jordan Love and the Packers’ development of him.

At the end of the day, rumours are just that: rumours. But an Aaron Rodgers stint in Seattle would be a fun, if not chaotic ride and I personally am all for it. After all, there isn’t exactly a ton of elite options- why not throw a soon-to-be 42 year old behind one of the worst O-lines in the league?

NHL Trade Deadline Grades: Dallas Stars

The Dallas Stars have made one thing crystal clear: they are all-in for a Stanley Cup run.

Mikko Rantanen was traded to Dallas and immediately signed an 8-year, $96-million contract (© Josh Lavallee/NHLI via Getty Images)

General manager Jim Nill swung for the fences, dealing away his next three first-round picks to bring in Mikko Rantanen and Mikael Granlund, making the Stars arguably the deepest forward group in the NHL. This is a team that has been on the brink of a championship multiple times in the last five years, and Nill is determined to push them over the top.

https://twitter.com/TSN_Edge/status/1898078504748507513

What the Stars Gave Up:

  • Three first-round picks (2025, 2026, 2027)
  • Logan Stankoven (promising young forward with plenty of potential)
  • Prospects and conditional picks (various minor pieces in the Granlund and Rantanen trades)

Logan Stankoven, now a member of the Carolina Hurricanes, pictured during his time with the Dallas Stars (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

What the Stars Acquired:

  • Mikko Rantanen – A true superstar forward with elite scoring ability, signed to an eight-year extension at below-market value.
  • Mikael Granlund – A versatile playmaker who adds another layer of skill and depth to the forward corps.

The Verdict:

This is as aggressive as it gets. Trading three consecutive first-round picks is a gamble few GMs are willing to make, but Nill believes this is Dallas’ time to win. Adding Rantanen, who ranks fourth in the NHL in points over the last five seasons, immediately makes the Stars an even bigger offensive powerhouse. His ability to dominate in the offensive zone and create scoring chances in high-danger areas will complement Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Wyatt Johnston perfectly.

Granlund, though not as flashy, brings playmaking ability and experience, fitting seamlessly into a roster that already boasts plenty of firepower. His chemistry with fellow Finnish stars in Dallas (Hintz, Miro Heiskanen, Esa Lindell) only adds to the upside.

Of course, there are questions about the long-term implications. With key players like Robertson and Thomas Harley due for new contracts soon, Dallas will have to navigate some serious cap gymnastics. And what does this mean for Jamie Benn, the longtime captain? His role could shift dramatically with Rantanen taking on top-line responsibilities.

But those are concerns for another day. Right now, the Stars are an absolute wagon, statistically one of the best teams in the league since January. They already ranked near the top in goal differential, power play efficiency, and even-strength scoring—now, they’ve added an elite scorer and a reliable veteran playmaker. If they don’t win it all this year, it won’t be because Nill didn’t try.

https://twitter.com/Josh_Clark02/status/1896397375222268347

Final Grade: A+ – The Stars went all-in and came out with a juggernaut roster. The Cup window is wide open.