As the 2026 NHL offseason comes to a close, teams are reviewing their roster moves and wondering what could have been. In a year marked by blockbuster deals and surprise signings, Yahoo Sports has identified the top five trades that will have the most lasting impact on the league. From savvy pickups to bold gambles, these deals showcase the art of NHL general managers and the ever-changing landscape of professional hockey. With the 2026-27 season just around the corner, fans are eager to see how these trades will shape their favorite teams' chances of success, and which players will emerge as stars. Will your team be a contender, or a cautionary tale of what not to do in the offseason? Read on to find out which trades made the cut as the best of the 2026 offseason.

5 best NHL trades of the 2026 offseason  Yahoo Sports