The NHL trade deadline is rapidly approaching, with teams making bold moves to strengthen their rosters for the playoff push.

The Florida Panthers secured Seth Jones from the Chicago Blackhawks, while the Tampa Bay Lightning enhanced their forward corps with Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand from the Seattle Kraken. In the Western Conference, the Edmonton Oilers added Trent Frederic from the Boston Bruins, bolstering their offensive depth, and the Vegas Golden Knights reacquired Reilly Smith from the New York Rangers. As a counter, the Colorado Avalanche responded by acquiring Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders, signaling their intent to remain competitive.

The NHL season is heating up, and with six games on the slate for March 7, it's crucial to spot the best DFS picks. The St. Louis Blues' top line featuring Pavel Buchnevich, Robert Thomas, and Jake Neighbours is set to capitalize on a struggling Anaheim Ducks defense, boasting a stellar Expected Goals Per 60. Robert Thomas is particularly on fire, riding an 11-game point streak. The Utah Hockey Club's line, including Clayton Keller and Logan Cooley, faces the Chicago Blackhawks, who have struggled defensively.

Additionally, the Vegas Golden Knights' line led by Jack Eichel aims to exploit the Pittsburgh Penguins' defensive woes, while the Washington Capitals' second line is positioned to shine against the Detroit Red Wings. On the blue line, John Carlson and Noah Hanifin are prime candidates to enhance their offensive production against weak defenses. Goalies Adin Hill and Logan Thompson present favorable matchups, potentially leading to strong performances in net.

The 2024-25 NHL playoff race heats up as the trade deadline passes, with teams like the Winnipeg Jets and Washington Capitals leading the pack with near-certain playoff chances. The Jets, despite a recent dip in their record, maintain a 99.9% probability of postseason play, bolstered by Connor Hellebuyck's performance. Meanwhile, Alex Ovechkin's continued pursuit of Wayne Gretzky's goal-scoring record adds intrigue to the Capitals' campaign. The Dallas Stars and Florida Panthers also exhibit strong playoff potential, although injuries like that of Matthew Tkachuk could impact their postseason fortunes.

The Vegas Golden Knights and Toronto Maple Leafs are well-positioned to make deep runs, while teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning and Carolina Hurricanes aim for success under pressure. Despite the struggles of the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Buffalo Sabres, the dynamic of the playoff race remains intense, with several teams battling for a coveted postseason spot.

The NHL trade deadline has stirred excitement, with several teams making bold moves to bolster their rosters as they gear up for the playoffs. The Florida Panthers have secured defenseman Seth Jones from the Chicago Blackhawks, aiming to strengthen their back end. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Lightning have added Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand from the Seattle Kraken, escalating their pursuit of another Cup.

In the West, the Edmonton Oilers have made headlines by acquiring Trent Frederic from the Boston Bruins to add depth and size, followed by Jake Walman from the San Jose Sharks for defensive support. The Vegas Golden Knights have re-acquired Reilly Smith from the New York Rangers, while the Colorado Avalanche picked up center Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders to enhance their offensive capability. As the deadline approaches, the fate of Mikko Rantanen remains uncertain as he has yet to sign an extension with the Carolina Hurricanes.

The trade speculation surrounding Mikko Rantanen is intensifying as the Carolina Hurricanes explore various options, with Friedman suggesting that the player could potentially be moved with a contract extension or as a rental. The allure of securing Rantanen, a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA), presents significant challenges for teams, particularly regarding comfort levels with trading for an unsigned player.

Friedman notes that while there are certainly teams interested in acquiring Rantanen, the Hurricanes' decision hinges on whether they can secure a signed deal. The Vegas Golden Knights and Florida Panthers are highlighted as possible contenders for a trade, especially given their roster needs.