2025 Trade Targets to Watch: Jason Robertson, Jordan Kyrou & Tage Thompson on the Radar
As the 2025 NHL offseason kicks into gear, several high-profile names have emerged as potential trade candidates. While most eyes are locked on free agency, teams across the league are quietly evaluating opportunities to acquire elite talent via trade. Among the names generating serious buzz: Jason Robertson, Jordan Kyrou, and Tage Thompson.
Jason Robertson – Dallas Stars
Jason Robertson’s name being floated in trade circles might come as a surprise — but in the salary cap era, even top scorers aren’t untouchable. The Dallas Stars are in a bit of a cap squeeze, especially if they plan on retooling for another deep playoff push. Robertson, signed through 2026 at a $7.75M AAV, offers excellent value for a point-per-game winger in his prime. However, the Stars’ organizational depth on the wings and their pressing need to bolster the blue line could make a hockey trade possible.
Several contenders, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers, and New York Islanders, have been monitoring the situation.
However, don’t be shocked if the New York Rangers, still seeking a dynamic young scorer to complement the top 6, make a serious offer. They have had ongoing talks with the Stars dating back to last year’s trade deadline, and are actively talking with them to possibly make something happen.
Jordan Kyrou – St. Louis Blues
Jordan Kyrou is another electrifying talent whose future in his current organization feels uncertain. Despite being locked in long-term (8 years, $8.125M AAV), the Blues haven’t been able to consistently climb back into contention. With a retool potentially on the horizon, Kyrou could be the centerpiece in a blockbuster deal to accelerate a youth movement.
Teams like the Montreal Canadiens, Buffalo Sabres, New Jersey Devils, and Los Angeles Kings have expressed interest, viewing Kyrou as a plug-and-play top-six winger with game-breaking speed. The Blues, meanwhile, may be looking to swap him for a younger, cost-controlled center or a right-shot defenseman.
The Montreal Canadiens have actively been negotiating with St. Louis, trying to flip Defenseman Mike Matheson, along with C Kirby Dach for Kyrou, and things are intensifying as we draw near to Kyrou’s clause activation.
Tage Thompson – Buffalo Sabres
A year ago, the idea of trading Tage Thompson would’ve seemed absurd. But after a frustrating, injury-riddled 2024-25 campaign and another season outside the playoffs, the Sabres are reassessing everything. Thompson’s size, shot, and skill make him a unique threat down the middle, but there are whispers that Buffalo might be open to moving him if the return jumpstarts their stagnant rebuild.
Expect the St. Louis Blues, Carolina Hurricanes, Calgary Flames, and Anaheim Ducks to be involved if talks progress. All these teams are searching for a top-line center with term (Thompson is signed through 2030 at $7.14M AAV), and Buffalo’s willingness to get creative could spark some July fireworks.
Bottom Line
With the salary cap projected to rise again next summer, the 2025 trade market could be more active than ever. Teams are weighing long-term cap flexibility against the pressure to win now — and that means even franchise cornerstones like Robertson, Kyrou, and Thompson may be on the move. Whether it’s a bold retool or an aggressive push for contention, the groundwork is being laid for a fascinating offseason.
Keep an eye on these three names — the next big NHL blockbuster might just be a matter of time