NHL Offseason Overhaul: Teams That Transformed Their Rosters for 2025-26

The NHL offseason is always a time of significant change, and the 2025 offseason was no exception. From blockbuster trades to key free agent signings, several teams have made moves that could dramatically impact the upcoming season. Here’s a look at the teams that have transformed their rosters the most.

Teams That Added the Most Value

1. San Jose Sharks (+22.0 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Additions: Dmitry Orlov, Adam Gaudette, Nick Leddy, Alex Nedeljkovic, John Klingberg
   • Analysis: The Sharks have made significant strides in their rebuild, adding veteran talent to support their young core. Orlov and Klingberg bring experience and skill to the blue line, while Gaudette and Leddy add depth. Nedeljkovic provides stability in net.

2. Anaheim Ducks (+17.7 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Additions: Chris Kreider, Mikael Granlund, Petr Mrazek, Ryan Poehling
   • Analysis: The Ducks have bolstered their offense with Kreider and Granlund, while Mrazek offers a reliable backup option in goal. These additions aim to support their emerging young stars.

3. Seattle Kraken (+13.1 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Additions: Mason Marchment, Ryan Lindgren, Frederick Gaudreau
   • Analysis: Marchment brings both offensive and defensive prowess, addressing key areas for the Kraken. Lindgren and Gaudreau add depth, making Seattle a more balanced team.

4. Montreal Canadiens (+11.1 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Additions: Noah Dobson, Zack Bolduc
   • Analysis: Dobson is a game-changer on defense, and Bolduc adds offensive firepower. The Canadiens are accelerating their rebuild with these strategic moves.

5. Vegas Golden Knights (+8.7 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Additions: Mitch Marner, Colton Sissons
   • Analysis: Marner is a marquee addition, bringing elite scoring ability. Sissons adds depth, making Vegas a formidable contender once again.

Teams That Lost the Most Value

1. Dallas Stars (-25.3 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Losses: Mason Marchment, Mikael Granlund, Evgenii Dadonov, Cody Ceci
   • Analysis: The Stars have seen significant turnover, losing key contributors. While their core remains intact, the supporting cast has weakened.

2. Edmonton Oilers (-13.1 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Losses: Corey Perry, Viktor Arvidsson, Evander Kane, Connor Brown, John Klingberg
   • Analysis: The Oilers have lost depth and experience, which could impact their ability to compete at the highest level.

3. Toronto Maple Leafs (-12.3 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Losses: Mitch Marner, Pontus Holmberg
   • Analysis: Losing Marner is a significant blow to Toronto’s offense. While they’ve added some pieces, the loss of a top-tier player is hard to overcome.

4. New York Rangers (-9.3 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Losses: Chris Kreider, K'Andre Miller, Arthur Kaliyev, Zac Jones
   • Analysis: The Rangers have lost key contributors on both ends of the ice. While they’ve added some talent, the overall impact is negative.

5. Winnipeg Jets (-7.4 net 3-year weighted GAR)

   • Key Losses: Nikolaj Ehlers, Mason Appleton, Brandon Tanev
   • Analysis: The Jets have lost offensive firepower, which could lead to a regression in their performance next season.

Conclusion

The 2025 NHL offseason has seen a mix of bold moves and cautious adjustments. Teams like the Sharks and Ducks have made significant strides in their rebuilds, while others like the Stars and Oilers face challenges after losing key players. As the new season approaches, these roster changes will be crucial in shaping the NHL landscape.

For more detailed analysis and rankings, check out the full breakdown of all 32 teams and their offseason moves.