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While we can list numerous moves the Red Wings should consider at the 2025 trade deadline, we haven’t yet examined what their division rivals should be doing. One thing is certain: no team in the Atlantic Division can afford to stand pat when the deadline arrives—or even in the days leading up to it.
Some teams are clearly out of the playoff picture, while others find themselves at a crossroads. The Red Wings, however, are in a unique position. They entered the season with expectations of taking a step forward and pushing for a playoff berth.
At the moment, they remain on the fringe but are very much in contention. That’s why buying at the deadline is their best course of action. However, not every team should be looking to buy. Let’s break down at least one move that each Atlantic Division team—aside from the Red Wings—should make before the March 7 deadline.
Boston Bruins – Trade Brad Marchand
Bruins fans may not want to hear this, but if Boston is serious about retooling, moving on from Brad Marchand is a necessary step. Trading Marchand would be difficult for the fanbase—after all, he’s been an entertaining and pivotal player for over a decade.
That said, Marchand is still highly effective and could fetch a strong return. Boston is no longer the powerhouse it once was, and dealing him could help accelerate a rebuild, similar to what the Calgary Flames have done by moving key players.
Buffalo Sabres – Move on from Dylan Cozens
Dylan Cozens once appeared to be a reliable scorer, but at this point, Buffalo should accept that he hasn’t lived up to expectations. A trade could still bring back value, especially since teams may be enticed by his 2022-23 season, when he scored 31 goals.
Cozens is under contract with a $7.1 million AAV, which could be a concern for some teams. However, others might see his size and past scoring ability as worth the risk. If he doesn’t rediscover his offensive game, he could still serve as a physical, depth-scoring forward.
Florida Panthers – Add a top-four defenseman
Few contenders can afford to stand pat at the deadline, and the Panthers certainly shouldn’t. While they’ve been solid overall, their biggest weakness has been allowing too many goals—they currently rank 16th in the NHL in that category.
Bringing in a reliable top-four defenseman, even one who doesn’t log 18+ minutes per game but excels at blocking shots, delivering hits, and shutting down plays, could make a significant difference. If Florida wants the best chance to repeat as Stanley Cup champions, standing still isn’t an option.
Montreal Canadiens – Trade veteran contributors
The Canadiens are on the right path, steadily rebuilding around young talents like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Lane Hutson. However, they’re not quite ready to be playoff contenders.
Since several of their current veteran contributors likely won’t be around when Montreal is competitive again, now is the time to move them. Trading aging assets would open up opportunities for younger players to gain valuable NHL experience.
Ottawa Senators – Land a star scorer
If there’s one move Ottawa should make, it’s acquiring a top-tier offensive talent—perhaps someone like Elias Pettersson. The Senators have been one of the league’s biggest surprises this season, and failing to capitalize on their momentum would be a wasted opportunity.
While their defense has been strong, ranking among the top 10 in goals allowed, their offense is lacking—they currently sit 20th in scoring. Adding a true star to complement Brady Tkachuk, Drake Batherson, and Tim Stützle could push them to another level.
Tampa Bay Lightning – Add a physical defensive forward
Tampa Bay and Toronto both need to add toughness, but the Lightning’s urgency is even greater. Through 55 games, they’ve recorded just 995 hits—an average of 18.1 per game—which is concerning for a team with deep playoff aspirations.
Skill-wise, Tampa Bay remains one of the NHL’s most dangerous teams. However, they need to bolster their physicality to avoid being pushed around in the postseason. Given their resurgence in the post-Steven Stamkos era, addressing this gap is crucial.
Toronto Maple Leafs – Bring in a bruiser
The Maple Leafs already have some physical players, including Connor Dewar and Jani Hakanpää, but injuries have sidelined them, and their return timelines are uncertain. Even if they do come back, there’s no guarantee they’ll be in peak form immediately.
To ensure they maintain their physical edge when it matters most, the Leafs should bring in another enforcer-type forward. They have the offensive firepower and defensive structure to contend, but adding some extra toughness could be the final piece they need for a deep playoff run.
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