Ron Francis, Ray Bourque Among Best NHL Trade Deadline Deals Ever (Photos)

The NHL trade deadline serves as a source of tension for fans. Over the years, a number of blockbuster deals have been made right before the deadline, helped a team in the rebuilding process or immediately turned it into a Stanley Cup contender.

Since the 2004-05 lockout, just about every Stanley Cup champion has made some sort of move at the deadline. In fact, many of the championship teams over the last 25 years added a key piece to their roster at that time. Included in some of those famous trades were Hall of Fame players such as Ron Francis and Ray Bourque.

Click here to see the best NHL trade deadline deals ever >>