Trade Buzz: The Avalanche demand support before the clock runs out, GM says, while DeBrusk weighs a move and the Blues navigate a tense stretch
By NHL.com
March 03, 2026
Welcome to the NHL Trade Buzz. With three days left until the 2026 Trade Deadline (Friday at 3 p.m. ET), here’s a snapshot of the latest activity around the league:
Colorado Avalanche
The Avalanche are exploring every avenue to upgrade before the deadline, GM Chris MacFarland told reporters ahead of a 4-2 win over the Los Angeles Kings on Monday. He emphasized that the focus isn’t only about adding a third-line center behind Nathan MacKinnon and Brock Nelson; rather, the team is open to any move that makes them better.
“If something improves us, whether it’s a winger, a center, or another defenseman, we’ll consider it over the next few days,” MacFarland said.
“We have some-cap space to work with, and we’ll see if there’s a fit.”
Colorado has already completed one deal, sending defenseman Samuel Girard to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for defenseman Brett Kulak and a second-round pick in the 2028 draft on Feb. 24.
The Avalanche sit atop the league with 40 wins and 89 points (40-10-9).
“We have a lot of players in their prime here,” MacFarland noted. “They’ve earned their success with hard work on and off the ice all year. Their strong start put us in this position. If we can help, they deserve the help.”
MacFarland also said there’s real hope forward Logan O’Connor—who has not played this season while recovering from hip surgery on June 6—could be available soon.
Vancouver Canucks
Jake DeBrusk indicated in a Vancouver Province interview that he’s not thrilled about a rebuild and would consider waiving his no-movement clause to join a contending team.
“Obviously, rebuild isn’t something I’d tolerate,” DeBrusk told the paper. “My game doesn’t fit that.”
DeBrusk, 29, is in the second year of a seven-year, $38.5 million contract ($5.5 million AAV) signed with Vancouver on July 1, 2024. This season he’s produced 29 points (13 goals, 16 assists) in 59 games. He had a career-best 28 goals and 48 points in 82 games last season.
Across the league, DeBrusk has surpassed 20 goals four times, including three seasons with the Boston Bruins, where he played from 2017–2024.
Vancouver sits at 18-35-7 and currently ranks last in the NHL, which could push them to sellers this week. Defenseman Tyler Myers has been scratched in the last three games for roster management, signaling a potential impending deal.
DeBrusk added that while a rebuild is tough for players, it also presents a chance for younger teammates to step up. “This game humbles everyone, and this year has been more than humbling.”
St. Louis Blues
Brayden Schenn acknowledged that the days leading to the trade deadline have been challenging.
The Blues, at 22-29-9, sit 13 points behind the Oilers for the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference, making the stretch drive fraught with pressure.
“It’s an uneasy time for everyone, given where we’ve put ourselves,” Schenn said. “We see names out there, but you still have to go to work, practice hard, and stay professional. That’s how you handle it.”
Schenn—the Blues captain—is in the fifth year of an eight-year, $52 million deal ($6.5 million AAV) that began Oct. 4, 2019. His no-trade protection has softened to a 15-team no-trade clause. The 34-year-old center has 25 points (12 goals, 13 assists) in 60 games this season.
Other players who have appeared in trade discussions include forwards Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou, and defenseman Justin Faulk. Any moves involving Thomas or Kyrou would require them to waive their full no-trade clauses.
“As a coach, you respect the human element,” Blues coach Jim Montgomery said. “Sometimes people’s minds are elsewhere, so you talk to them between whistles during practice rather than stopping play. You’ve got to keep moving and acknowledge the human side of it.” Everybody knows what’s coming, Montgomery added.
The Blues visit the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday at 10 p.m. ET (HULU, ESPN+).
Controversy note: These deadlines always stir mixed opinions—some fans argue the loudest names should fetch the biggest returns, while others insist teams should protect their long-term futures rather than chase temporary boosts. Do you think this season’s deadline moves will help or hurt the teams most in need of stability? Share your take in the comments.
