The NHL offseason is among the busiest times for trade activity as teams attempt to improve their rosters. Some seek quick fixes, while others have longer-term plans in mind. The salary cap can also become a factor as clubs with limited space make cost-cutting moves.
A number of significant offseason trades have occurred since the turn of this century. While every general manager tries to make the best deal they can, sometimes a player swap that looked good on paper can have unexpectedly terrible results.
Some entailed moving an established superstar like Jaromir Jagr. A few involved players on the cusp of stardom at the time of the deal.