Here are six NHL trades that could have reshaped the 2024 season

The 2024 NHL offseason brought a whirlwind of speculation, with several high-profile trades anticipated but never materializing. As the dust settles, here are six trades that should have happened but didn't, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering what could have been.

The Buffalo Sabres have been on the cusp of breaking their playoff drought, and acquiring a seasoned goaltender like John Gibson could have been the final piece of the puzzle. Gibson, who has been linked to trade rumors for years, would bring stability to Buffalo's crease, potentially making them a formidable force in the Eastern Conference. However, despite the fit, the trade didn't materialize, leaving Sabres fans questioning what could have been.

William Nylander's contract situation was one of the most discussed topics this offseason. While the Toronto Maple Leafs managed to extend him, a trade to the Calgary Flames seemed like a natural fit. The Flames, who have struggled with consistency, could have benefited from Nylander's scoring prowess. The deal would have also allowed the Leafs to free up some much-needed cap space. However, Nylander stayed put, and the Flames missed out on a potential game-changer.

A reunion between Erik Karlsson and the Ottawa Senators was a tantalizing prospect. The Senators, who are on the rise, could have used Karlsson's veteran presence and offensive capabilities on the blue line. For Karlsson, it would have been a chance to finish his career where it all started. Unfortunately, the sentimental move didn't come to fruition, leaving both sides wondering what might have been.

Brock Boeser's name was floated in trade rumors throughout the offseason, with the New York Islanders emerging as a potential destination. The Islanders, who needed a boost in their scoring department, could have been an ideal landing spot for Boeser. His goal-scoring ability would have complemented the Islanders' existing core, but the deal never happened, leaving Boeser in Vancouver and the Islanders still searching for answers.

The Colorado Avalanche, perennial Stanley Cup contenders, were in the market for a top-six forward. Mark Scheifele, who has been a cornerstone for the Winnipeg Jets, was rumored to be on their radar. A move to Colorado could have given the Avalanche an extra offensive punch, potentially pushing them over the top in their quest for another championship. However, Scheifele remained with the Jets, and the Avalanche's forward depth remains a topic of discussion.

Connor Hellebuyck, one of the top goaltenders in the league, was another big name linked to trade rumors. The New Jersey Devils, who are building a young and exciting team, could have greatly benefited from Hellebuyck's elite goaltending. A move to New Jersey might have solidified the Devils as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference. But the deal never happened, and Hellebuyck continues to backstop the Winnipeg Jets.

These six trades, while never completed, would have significantly altered the landscape of the NHL. As teams continue to navigate the complexities of the salary cap and roster construction, fans can only speculate on what these moves might have meant for the upcoming season.