A key NHL defenseman has returned to his team’s active roster, potentially reshaping their depth options ahead of the trade deadline. Five unsigned unrestricted free agents remain eligible for waivers, adding uncertainty to several squads’ final roster moves. With teams scrambling to bolster their lineups, the availability of these players could influence high-stakes transactions in the coming days. The shift may also create new opportunities for contenders looking to strengthen their defense or forward groups before the deadline.

Blue Jackets Dmitri Voronkov is available, and five pending UFAs that could be made available before the trade deadline.