There have been many trades in the NHL, leaving fans and analysts alike in disbelief. Some deals have completely remade the league, making them unforgettable moments in hockey history. Here are five of the most surprising transfers in NHL history that continue to spark debate among fans:Â
1. Wayne Gretzky to Los Angeles Kings (1988)
Often called the best known simply as “The Trade,” Wayne Gretzky’s move from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings is arguably the biggest shocker in sports history. When he was at the top of his game, the Oilers traded Gretzky because of financial problems. The deal also brought both franchises on a new path and expanded hockey’s popularity in Southern California, as hockey became a major household name with Gretzky.
2. Eric Lindros to Philadelphia Flyers (1992)
Highly touted prospect Eric Lindros refused to play for the Quebec Nordiques, leading to a blockbuster trade that saw him shipped to Philadelphia. The Nordiques eventually acquired a treasure trove of talent, including Peter Forsberg, who would become a superstar too. Other times this trade is debated because, while Lindros did have a great start to the trade, his career was hampered by injuries.
3. Patrick Roy to Colorado Avalanche (1995)
The Montreal Canadiens have shocked everyone by trading their star goalie Patrick Roy to the Colorado Avalanche. It’s not just the end of an era in Montreal; it also gave Colorado immediate success and a Stanley Cup that same year. So how did this affect both franchises long-term?
4. Phil Esposito to Boston Bruins (1967)
Another important moment in NHL history was Phil Esposito’s move from the Chicago Blackhawks to the Boston Bruins. After joining Boston, Esposito soon became one of the league’s top scorers, while Chicago got little in return in what has been one of the most lopsided deals in history.
5. Joe Thornton to San Jose Sharks (2005)
Joe Thornton’s move from the Boston Bruins to the San Jose Sharks blew away fans because he was one of the best players and a former MVP. Thornton turned out to be a cornerstone for San Jose, while the Bruins got little from his departure.
The trades not only changed the makeup of teams but also impacted the careers of many players who were involved as well. What was the biggest trade that affected the NHL? Trades can alter the remembered legacies and fan perceptions forever, and as we look back at these surprising transfers, it’s clear to us all that trades will reshape legacies and change perceptions in the years to come.
