As the 2026 NHL Draft approaches, teams are beginning to position themselves for a potential shake-up. With several franchises struggling to find consistency and compete for a Stanley Cup title, a first-round pick trade may be on the horizon for some. Teams like the Arizona Coyotes, who have been in a perpetual rebuilding phase, and the Buffalo Sabres, who have yet to find long-term success, may be willing to part with their first-round pick in exchange for assets that can help them become contenders. Meanwhile, teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, who have a history of making aggressive moves to bolster their roster, may be looking to acquire a first-round pick to further strengthen their lineup.

Which teams are most likely to trade first-round picks at the 2026 NHL Draft?  Daily Faceoff