NEW YORK, 26 February 2026 – The National Hockey League (NHL) has entered its most volatile period of the 2025-26 season. Following the conclusion of the 2026 Winter Olympics, where Team USA secured a dramatic overtime gold medal victory against Canada, the league has shifted its focus back to the looming 6 March trade deadline. Front offices are currently grappling with a wave of post-Olympic injuries and high-stakes negotiations.
Trade Deadline Fever: Rumours and Realities
With the trade deadline just over a week away, several “blockbuster” names are circulating in the rumour mill. The Los Angeles Kings are reportedly aggressive in their search for a top-six forward to fill the void left by Kevin Fiala’s injury. While the Kings were linked to Patrik Laine, recent reports suggest they have pivoted to other targets.
In Western Canada, the Edmonton Oilers are facing a complicated situation after a proposed trade involving a $7.2 million forward reportedly collapsed. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets, struggling to maintain their position in the standings, are listening to offers for two veteran defencemen. Other high-profile names currently on the “Trade Board” include Vincent Trocheck, Dougie Hamilton, and Nazem Kadri.
Injury Report: Post-Olympic Fallout
The physical toll of the Olympic break is becoming apparent as teams return to regular-season play. The Tampa Bay Lightning received a boost with news that Victor Hedman and Brayden Point are expected back in the lineup shortly. However, the Winnipeg Jets have lost Neal Pionk to a week-to-week injury, and the Pittsburgh Penguins are managing the absence of Sidney Crosby, who remains sidelined.
NHL League Structure and History
Founded in 1917, the NHL remains the premier professional ice hockey league in the world. It currently consists of 32 member clubs across North America, divided into the Eastern and Western Conferences. The ultimate prize is the Stanley Cup, the oldest professional sports trophy in North America, which has been under the permanent possession of the NHL since 1926.
| Trophy Name | Award Criteria |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup | League playoff champion |
| Presidents’ Trophy | Team with the best regular-season record |
| Hart Memorial Trophy | Most Valuable Player (MVP) to his team |
| Calder Memorial Trophy | Outstanding rookie of the year |
| Conn Smythe Trophy | Most Valuable Player during the playoffs |
| Prince of Wales Trophy | Eastern Conference playoff champion |
| Clarence S. Campbell Bowl | Western Conference playoff champion |
Current Power Rankings
As of late February 2026, the following teams lead the league in points and are considered the primary contenders for the Presidents’ Trophy:
- Tampa Bay Lightning: 37-14-4
- Colorado Avalanche: 37-9-9
- Carolina Hurricanes: 36-15-6
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline?
The trade deadline is set for 6 March 2026. Teams must submit all trade paperwork to the league office by 3:00 PM ET on that day.
How many games are in the NHL regular season?
Each team plays a total of 82 games. Following the regular season, 16 teams (eight from each conference) qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Who won the Olympic Gold in hockey this year?
Team USA won the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics, defeating Team Canada in a heart-stopping overtime thriller just days ago.
What is the oldest trophy in the NHL?
The Stanley Cup is the oldest professional sports trophy in North America. While the NHL was founded in 1917, the league took permanent possession of the Cup in 1926.