NHL trade grades: Report cards for biggest deals of 2025-26 - ESPN

ESPN

by Ryan S. Clark, Kristen Shilton and Greg Wyshynski

February 24, 2026

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The NHL trade season has intensified following the conclusion of the Olympics and the end of the roster freeze period. ESPN reporters Ryan S. Clark, Kristen Shilton, and Greg Wyshynski have been evaluating the major trades made so far, assigning grades to each team involved. Among the key deals this season are the acquisition of Brett Kulak by the Colorado Avalanche from the Pittsburgh Penguins, which also included Samuel Girard and a draft pick moving in the opposite direction. Additionally, the Los Angeles Kings secured Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers, while the Vancouver Canucks sent Kiefer Sherwood to the San Jose Sharks for picks and defenseman Cole Clayton. Other notable trades include the Calgary Flames' swap of Rasmus Andersson with the Vegas Golden Knights, as well as the Minnesota Wild acquiring Quinn Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks for a package of prospects and a first-round pick. The Avalanche received high praise for their deal to acquire Kulak, earning a B+ grade. The move allowed Colorado to address its defensive

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/24/2026