NHL Rumor Mill – February 6, 2026

by | Feb 6, 2026

NHL Rumor Mill – February 6, 2026

The latest on Rangers center Vincent Trocheck, Predators winger Jonathan Marchessault, Flames center Nazem Kadri, Sabres winger Alex Tuch, and more in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.

KINGS WERE INTERESTED IN VINCENT TROCHECK

SPORTSNET: Elliotte Friedman reported the Los Angeles Kings’ recent acquisition of winger Artemi Panarin doesn’t diminish their need for a center. They reportedly tried to get Vincent Trocheck included in the deal with Panarin, but his preference is to remain in the Eastern Conference. Kings general manager Ken Holland is also looking to move winger Warren Foegele, who’s been a healthy scratch lately.

New York Rangers center Vincent Trocheck (NHL Images)

Friedman also mentioned that the Detroit Red Wings attempted to sign Trocheck when he was an unrestricted free agent, but the Rangers beat them to it.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Trocheck is going to draw plenty of attention leading up to the March 6 trade deadline. The 32-year-old center is signed for three more seasons with an average annual value of $5.625 million and a 12-team no-trade list. Most of the teams on that list could be from the Western Conference.

COULD THE PREDATORS SHOP MARCHESSAULT AND O’REILLY?

Elliotte Friedman believes Nashville Predators winger Jonathan Marchessault could be a trade candidate. He has a full no-movement clause, but could waive it to go to a place with a good minor hockey infrastructure for his children.

Friedman believes the Montreal Canadiens are interested in Ryan O’Reilly, but it’s unknown if the Predators center will be traded.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Marchessault could be available, but his stock is down from two years ago because of the decline in his production. He’s 35 and carries a $5.5 million average annual value through 2028-29.

As for O’Reilly, Predators general manager Barry Trotz said he hasn’t received an offer suitable enough to take to the 34-year-old center. That could change as the trade deadline approaches, but he could be content to stay in Nashville.

THE LATEST ON FLAMES FORWARDS KADRI AND COLEMAN

Elliotte Friedman believes one of the reasons Nazem Kadri’s market slowed is the availability of Trocheck and St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas. He said the Utah Mammoth checked in with the Calgary Flames and believes this could pick up. There is a slight concern about the remaining term in Kadri’s contract, but the Flames are willing to be flexible.

Friedman also mentioned there has been a lot of talk linking winger Blake Coleman to the Montreal Canadiens, but he doesn’t think that’s feasible.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Flames are facing pressure to move Kadri and Coleman because the duo is signed beyond this season. Nevertheless, one of them could be on the move by the March 6 trade deadline.

Coleman seems the most likely candidate because of his versatility, experience, and affordable $4.9 million cap hit.

OTHER TIDBITS FROM THE LATEST “32 THOUGHTS” COLUMN

SPORTSNET: Elliotte Friedman believes some teams will use the Olympic break to engage in contract extension discussions.

He wondered how the Winnipeg Jets and center Jonathan Toews might feel about another year. Meanwhile, there’s been some discussion between the Buffalo Sabres and winger Alex Tuch, but they’re not close to a deal. He noted that the Sabres aren’t interested in making their team worse, which suggests they’re not going to move Tuch. Friedman also thinks they might add a “beefier blueliner, if possible.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Sabres are in a good position to end their 14-year playoff drought. They won’t risk upsetting that by moving Tuch even if they can’t agree on a new contract. They’ll hang onto him and revisit those discussions in the offseason.

The Toronto Maple Leafs seek a first-round pick for winger Bobby McMann. What makes it challenging is that several possible suitors, such as the Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, Edmonton Oilers, Minnesota Wild, and Vegas Golden Knights, traded away their 2026 first-rounders.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Leafs could end up settling for a second-round pick bundled with another pick or a prospect.

The Edmonton Oilers need to move Andrew Mangiapane.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Easier said than done thus far. They have reportedly trying to trade him since December without success.










NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – February 5, 2026

by | Feb 5, 2026

NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – February 5, 2026

A big game for the Blue Jackets, a hat-trick performance by the Wild’s Matt Boldy, the Blues and Devils make a trade, top prospect Gavin McKenna charged with assault, and more in today’s NHL Morning Coffee Headlines.

RECAPS OF WEDNESDAY’S GAMES

NHL.COM: The Columbus Blue Jackets won their seventh straight game by blanking the Chicago Blackhawks 4-0. Jet Greaves stopped 21 shots as the Jackets won their second straight game via shutout. Zach Werenski scored his 20th goal of the season, and Charlie Coyle collected two assists for the 29-20-7 Blue Jackets. Spencer Knight stopped 16 of 19 shots for the Blackhawks, who slipped to 22-26-9.

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski (NHL Images)

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Werenski leads all NHL defensemen in goals this season and sits second to Edmonton Oilers blueliner Evan Bouchard with 62 points. Blue Jackets winger Kirill Marchenko missed his second straight game due to illness. Meanwhile, Blackhawks forwards Wyatt Kaiser and Colton Dach left this game with injuries.

Minnesota Wild winger Matt Boldy cracked the 30-goal plateau with a hat trick, and Jared Spurgeon scored in overtime for a 6-5 victory over the Nashville Predators. Boldy also collected an assist for a four-point game, and Quinn Hughes had two assists for the 34-14-10 as they extended their win streak to five games. Steven Stamkos and Ryan O’Reilly each had three points for the Predators (26-24-3).

Dallas Stars captain Jamie Benn scored his second goal of the game with 23 seconds remaining in the third period to defeat the St. Louis Blues 5-4. Benn also had an assist while Jason Robertson tallied his 200th career NHL regular-season goal for the 34-14-9 Stars as they picked up their sixth consecutive victory. Jimmy Snuggerud and Jordan Kyrou each had a goal and an assist for the 20-28-9 Blues, who’ve dropped eight of their last nine games.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Stars defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin returned to action after missing four games with a lower-body injury. Teammate Lian Bichsel is expected to return to the lineup following the Olympic break. He’s been out of action since Nov. 30 with a lower-body injury.

Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon has two assists, including his 700th career NHL regular-season assist, as his club doubled up the San Jose Sharks 4-2. Artturi Lehkonen tallied twice, and Valeri Nichushkin picked up three assists for the 37-9-9 Avalanche, who lead the league with 83 points. Timothy Liljegren and Philipp Kurashev replied for the Sharks (27-24-4), who are 0-3-1 in their last four contests.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Sharks are 4-6-1 in their last 11. Before that slide, they were sitting third in the Pacific Division. They’ve since slipped to sixth, sitting five points out of a wildcard berth in the Western Conference.

The Montreal Canadiens defeated the Winnipeg Jets 5-1. Brendan Gallagher and Josh Anderson each had a goal and two assists, and goaltender Sam Montembeault kicked out 36 shots for the 32-17-8 Canadiens, extending their points streak to five games (4-0-1). Kyle Connor replied for the Jets, who dropped to 22-26-8.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Big win for Montembeault, who bailed out his teammates during their sluggish first period. Following the game, he revealed that he had gone through an emotional time recently, with his grandmother passing away on Jan. 27 and the Canadiens firing goalie coach Eric Raymond, who had coached Montembeault since 2021.

Florida Panthers center Anton Lundell had a goal and two assists in a 5-4 shootout victory over the Boston Bruins. Matthew Tkachuk and Uvis Balinskis each had a goal and an assist, and Brad Marchand tallied the winning goal in the shootout for the 29-24-3 Panthers, snapping a four-game losing skid. Michael Eyssimont tallied twice for the Bruins (32-21-4).

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy was fortunate to avoid a serious injury after receiving an illegal hit to the head by Panthers forward Sandis Vilmanis midway through the first period. McAvoy left the game but returned in the second period. Vilamanis received a two-minute minor penalty but left the game with an upper-body injury.

Calgary Flames goaltender Devin Cooley stopped 36 shots, and Ryan Lomberg snapped a 3-3 tie in a 4-3 upset of the Edmonton Oilers. Matvei Gridin had a goal and an assist for the 23-27-6 Flames. Leon Draisaitl scored twice, and Evan Bouchard had three assists for the Oilers (28-22-8), who have lost three straight contests.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Draisaitl was not impressed with his club’s recent performance. Following the game, he blasted everyone (himself included), from the coaches to his teammates. His remarks fueled comments on social media suggesting head coach Kris Knoblauch is in danger of losing his job.

It was a sour end to what had been a good day for Draisaitl, as he learned he was named one of the flagbearers for his native Germany in the opening ceremony for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics.

The Utah Mammoth got a goal and an assist each from Clayton Keller and Nick Schmaltz to lead their club over the Detroit Red Wings 4-1. Karel Vejmelka stopped 29 shots for the 30-23-4 Mammoth. Dylan Larkin scored for the Wings (33-19-6).

Vegas Golden Knights center Jack Eichel had a goal and an assist in a 5-2 win over the Vancouver Canucks. Mark Stone picked up two assists for the Golden Knights (26-16-14), who hold first place in the Pacific Division with 66 points. Teddy Blueger collected two assists for the 18-33-6 Canucks.

Seattle Kraken center Shane Wright scored twice in a 4-2 victory over the Los Angeles Kings. Joey Daccord stopped 25 shots for the Kraken (27-20-9). Andrei Kuzmenko scored both goals for the Kings (23-18-14).

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Kings will be looking forward to Artemi Panarin’s production. They acquired the playmaking superstar yesterday in a trade with the New York Rangers.

IN OTHER NEWS…

TSN: The St. Louis Blues traded center Nick Bjugstad on Wednesday to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for forward Thomas Bordeleau and a conditional 2026 fourth-round pick.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The sell-off begins in St. Louis as this move could lead to more deals involving more notable Blues players before the March 6 trade deadline. Goaltender Jordan Binnington, defenseman Justin Faulk, and forwards Brayden Schenn, Robert Thomas, and Jordan Kyrou have been mentioned as trade candidates.

The Devils were seeking experienced depth at center. Bjugstad could skate on the third or fourth line.

NEW JERSEY HOCKEY NOW: Speaking of the Devils, there’s no certainty that sidelined center Jack Hughes will be in their lineup for Thursday’s game against the New York Islanders. He remains day-to-day with a lower-body injury, but he is expected to play for Team USA in the upcoming Winter Olympics.

DAILY FACEOFF: Top NHL prospect and Penn State forward Gavin McKenna faces a felony assault charge stemming from an alleged altercation on Saturday. He was also charged with misdemeanor simple assault and two offenses for disorderly conduct and harassment.

A conviction of a first-degree felony carries a maximum sentence of 20 years.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred in a downtown bar in State College, Pennsylvania, following Penn State’s 5-4 loss to Michigan State in the outdoor game at Beaver Stadium. The unidentified victim suffered a broken jaw.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: It is important to remember that McKenna is innocent until proven guilty. Nevertheless, this incident casts a cloud of uncertainty over his future.

PITTSBURGH HOCKEY NOW: Penguins defenseman Caleb Jones has been suspended 20 games without pay for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA performance-enhancing substances program.

In a statement, Jones indicated he was receiving exosome therapy for a documented injury from an outside provider. He believes his positive test result was related to a contaminated substance associated with the treatment, adding that he didn’t intentionally use the prohibited substance. Nevertheless, he apologized for his actions.










NHL Rumor Mill – February 2, 2026

by | Feb 2, 2026

NHL Rumor Mill – February 2, 2026

What will the Maple Leafs do with Auston Matthews, Morgan Rielly, and Bobby McMann? Are the Canadiens still interested in Nazem Kadri? What’s the latest on the Senators? Find out in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.

THE LATEST MAPLE LEAFS SPECULATION

TORONTO SUN: Steve Simmons believes the Maple Leafs need to decide what they have in Auston Matthews and whether the remaining two seasons of his contract are worth investing in, or whether they should consider moving him elsewhere.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: On Saturday, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that Maple Leafs management touched base with the Matthews camp, and the latter remains committed to the team.

Nevertheless, a disappointing performance by the Maple Leafs next season could prompt Matthews to reconsider his future in Toronto.

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly (NHL Images).

Simmons believes Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving must approach Morgan Rielly about a trade. The 31-year-old defenseman is signed through 2029-30 with an average annual value of $7.5 million and a full no-movement clause. Given the downturn in Rielly’s performance, Simmons wondered what the blueliner might fetch in return.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Not long ago, Rielly would’ve fetched the Maple Leafs at least a first-round pick and a top prospect or a promising young NHL player. Not anymore. The Leafs might also have to retain part of his salary. They might get a second-rounder if they’re lucky and one other piece.

Simmons also proposed trading UFA-eligible winger Bobby McMann for “some kind of futures” and then bringing him back as a free agent this summer if he agrees to that.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Those types of moves are rarely done as players who hit the open market tend to go where they can get the best deal. Maybe McMann would accept that scenario proposed by Simmons, provided the same management team remains in place for the Leafs this summer. If Treliving is fired, his replacement might have other ideas.

ARE THE CANADIENS INTERESTED IN NAZEM KADRI?

RG.ORG: Marco D’Amico reports sources confirmed that the Montreal Canadiens were interested in Nazem Kadri earlier this season. The 35-year-old Calgary Flames center is signed through 2028-29 with an AAV of $7 million, and a 13-team no-trade list.

D’Amico indicated that the Canadiens are not on Kadri’s no-trade list. However, their interest in Kadri cooled by the time January rolled around. The emergence of Oliver Kapanen as their second-line center, the progression of top prospect Michael Hage, and the December acquisition of Phillip Danault have made Kadri less of a fit for the Habs.

According to D’Amico, the Flames are reportedly willing to retain part of Kadri’s salary to facilitate a trade. The Minnesota Wild, Carolina Hurricanes, and Detroit Red Wings could be among the suitors, with interest likely to increase after the Olympic break.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: D’Amico didn’t fully close the door on the Canadiens’ interest in Kadri, especially if the asking price softens near the trade deadline or if injuries arise. However, it’s now believed the Habs are more likely seeking a scoring winger to play on the top line alongside Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield.

UPDATE ON THE SENATORS

OTTAWA SUN: Bruce Garrioch reports Senators GM Steve Staios continues working the phones. It’s believed they recently spoke to the Flames about defenseman (and Ottawa native) MacKenzie Weegar, and “kicked tires” on winger Blake Coleman.

It’s believed that Staios prefers adding players with term remaining on their contracts because returning to the playoffs next season is not out of the question.

If Staios decides to sell by the March 6 deadline, Garrioch believes pending UFAs such as Claude Giroux, David Perron, Lars Eller, and Nick Cousins could have some value in the trade market.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: It’s been a disappointing season for the Senators after snapping a seven-year playoff drought last year. Injuries and shaky goaltending were the main culprits. A healthier lineup with more reliable goalies next season could result in a strong bounce-back effort on their part.










NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – February 1, 2026

by | Feb 1, 2026

NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – February 1, 2026

Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon scores his 40th goal of the season, Predators captain Roman Josi reaches a goal-scoring milestone, Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson collects his 700th assist, and more in today’s NHL Morning Coffee Headlines

NHL.COM: Nathan MacKinnon became the first player to reach 40 goals this season as his club blanked the Detroit Red Wings 5-0. MacKinnon scored twice and collected an assist while Mackenzie Blackwood turned in a 28-save shutout for the league-leading Avalanche (36-8-9), becoming the first team to reach 80 points this season (81). Detroit goalie John Gibson allowed four goals on 17 shots before being relieved by Cam Talbot after the second period. The 32-18-6 Red Wings have one win in their last five games (1-2-2).

Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (NHL Images).

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Avalanche winger Martin Necas missed this game with a lower-body injury and is listed as day-to-day. Long-time Red Wings radio analyst Paul Woods confirmed he will be retiring at the end of this season after 40 years behind the mike.

Nashville Predators’ captain Roman Josi’s 200th career NHL regular-season goal was the game-winner in a 4-3 victory over the New York Islanders. Josi snapped a 3-3 tie with 1:14 remaining in the third period for the 25-23-6 Predators, who also got two goals from Filip Forsberg. Ilya Sorokin stopped 38 shots, Mathew Barzal had a goal and an assist, and rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer scored his 15th goal of the season for the 30-20-5 Islanders.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Predators defenseman Nick Blankenburg missed this game with an illness. Islanders rookie center Calum Ritchie is out until after the Olympic break with a lower-body injury.

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson collected an assist to reach 700 career regular-season assists as his club held off the New York Rangers 6-5. Anthony Mantha and Noel Acciari each had two goals for the 28-14-11 Penguins, who picked up their sixth straight win. Alexis Lafreniere and Vincent Trocheck each had three points for the Rangers (22-28-6), who have lost six of their last seven games.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Penguins held a pregame ceremony honoring their 2015-16 Stanley Cup championship team, moving Penguins captain Sidney Crosby to tears.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang missed this game and will be sidelined for four weeks with a fractured foot. Earlier in the day, the Rangers claimed defenseman Vincent Iorio off waivers from the San Jose Sharks.

Ottawa Senators goaltender Linus Ullmark returned to action with a 26-save performance in a 4-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils. Senators captain Brady Tkachuk had a goal and two assists as his club picked up their third straight win and improved to 26-21-7. Timo Meier replied for the Devils (28-25-2), who are 1-3-0 in their last four contests.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: This was Ullmark’s first game since taking a leave of absence in late December for mental health reasons. He was mobbed by his teammates at the final horn and named the game’s first star. Teammate Thomas Chabot left this game early for precautionary reasons. Meanwhile, Devils center Jack Hughes missed this game as he’s day-to-day with a lower-body injury.

An overtime goal by Justin Sourdif lifted the Washington Capitals to a 4-3 comeback win over the Carolina Hurricanes. The Capitals (27-22-7) overcame a 3-0 deficit with Jakob Chychrun and Aliaksei Protas each collecting two points, and call-up goalie Clay Stevenson making 22 saves for his first career NHL win. Frederik Andersen made 38 saves for the 33-15-6 Hurricanes, who hold first place in the Metropolitan Division with 72 points.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Before the game, the Capitals announced forward Connor McMichael is week-to-week with an upper-body injury. Goaltender Charlie Lindgren (lower-body) is on injured reserve. Goalie Logan Thompson and defenseman Matt Roy are listed as day-to-day.

Montreal Canadiens winger Cole Caufield scored the tying and winning goals in the third period as his club doubled up the Buffalo Sabres 4-2. Caufield finished with three points, and goalie Jakub Dobes kicked out 36 shots for the 31-17-7 Canadiens, who extended their win streak to three games. Owen Power and Noah Ostlund replied for the Sabres (31-18-5) as their five-game win streak ended.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Canadiens winger Alexandre Texier missed this game with a lower-body injury.

Before the game, the league announced that former Canadiens forward Chuck Lefley had passed away at the age of 76. Lefley spent nine seasons in the NHL with the Canadiens and St. Louis Blues from 1970-71 to 1980-81. He won two Stanley Cups with the Canadiens and tallied a career-best 43 goals and 42 assists for 85 points with the Blues in 1975-76. In 407 regular-season games, Lefley had 128 goals and 164 assists for 292 points, and 13 points in 29 playoff games.

My condolences to Lefley’s family, friends, and former teammates.

The Seattle Kraken nipped the Vegas Golden Knights 3-2. Kaapo Kakko snapped a 2-2 tie early in the third period, Chandler Stephenson collected two assists, and Joey Daccord turned aside 27 shots for the 26-19-9 Kraken, who picked up their fourth straight victory. Jack Eichel assisted on both goals for the Golden Knights (25-15-14), who cling to first place in the Pacific Division with 64 points.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Kraken forward Berkly Catton will be sidelined until after the upcoming Olympic break with an upper-body injury suffered during Thursday’s win over the Toronto Maple Leafs.

An overtime goal by Quinton Byfield gave the Los Angeles Kings a 3-2 win over the Philadelphia Flyers. Adrian Kempe tallied twice and picked up an assist for the 23-17-13 Kings. Travis Konecny had a goal and an assist for the Flyers (24-20-10), who are 0-3-1 in their last four games.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Kings captain Anze Kopitar returned to action after being sidelined since Jan. 5 with a lower-body injury. They placed forward Alex Turcotte (upper body) on injured reserve.

The Calgary Flames snapped a five-game winless skid by defeating the San Jose Sharks 3-2. Morgan Frost had a goal and an assist, and Dustin Wolf stopped 23 shots for the 22-26-6 Flames. Alex Nedeljkovic kicked out 39 shots for the Sharks (27-22-4).

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Sharks activated forward Philipp Kurashev and defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin off injured reserve for this game.

Meanwhile, the Flames recalled rookie defenseman Zayne Parekh after his conditioning stint with their AHL affiliate. Though he didn’t play in this game, Parekh said his time in the AHL helped improve his confidence. He also enjoyed his time with Team Canada in the 2026 World Juniors, saying it reignited his love of the game.

Toronto Maple Leafs winger William Nylander returned to action and scored the winning goal in a 3-2 shootout win over the Vancouver Canucks. Joseph Woll stopped 28 shots for the Maple Leafs (25-21-9), snapping a six-game winless skid (0-5-1). Nikita Tolopilo turned aside 39 shots for the 18-31-6 Canucks.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly left this game after the second period with an upper-body injury.

The Columbus Blue Jackets extended their win streak to five games by defeating the St. Louis Blues 5-3. Kent Johnson had a goal and an assist, and Jet Greaves made 28 saves for the 27-20-7 Blues Jackets. Jimmy Snuggerud and Jonatan Berggren each had a goal and an assist for the Blues (20-26-9), who are 1-5-1 in their last seven games.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Blues center Robert Thomas missed this game as he underwent a minor surgical procedure on one of his legs and is sidelined until after the Olympic break. The Blues activated center Pius Suter off injured reserve after he missed 15 games with an injured ankle.

Third-period goals by Cole Perfetti and Mark Scheifele lifted the Winnipeg Jets to a 2-1 win over the Florida Panthers. Eric Comrie made 27 saves for the Jets (22-25-7). Eetu Luostarinen replied for the 28-23-3 Panthers, who dropped their third straight game.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Panthers winger Brad Marchand missed this game as he’s day-to-day with an undisclosed injury. He’s unlikely to return to action before the upcoming Olympic break.

Minnesota Wild goaltender Jesper Wallstedt kicked out 39 shots as his club downed the Edmonton Oilers 7-3. Quinn Hughes, Brock Faber, Mats Zuccarello, and Joel Eriksson Ek each had a goal and an assist for the 32-14-10 Wild, who picked up their third straight win. Leon Draisaitl, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Jack Roslovic replied for the Oilers (28-20-8), as their three-game win streak ended.

The Dallas Stars nipped the Utah Mammoth 3-2. Matt Duchene scored to extend his goal streak to four games, and Jamie Benn collected two assists for the 32-14-9 Stars, who have won four straight games. Kailer Yamamoto tallied both goals for the Mammoth (28-23-4).










NHL Rumor Mill – January 31, 2026

by | Jan 31, 2026

NHL Rumor Mill – January 31, 2026

The latest on Artemi Panarin and Evander Kane, plus updates on the Flames, Maple Leafs, and Predators in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.

THE LATEST ARTEMI PANARIN RUMORS

SPORTSNET: Elliotte Friedman reports hearing that New York Rangers winger Artemi Panarin seeks a contract extension worth $50 million before signing off on a trade.

“He is going to try and hit a contract home run, even though he’s 34 years old,” Friedman said. Panarin is earning an annual average value of $11.6 million on his current deal, which expires on July 1.

New York Rangers winger Artemi Panarin (NHL Images).

Friedman said several teams reportedly have varying degrees of interest in Panarin. The Colorado Avalanche are interested, but not in an extension. Ditto the Dallas Stars unless they pivot away from re-signing RFA-eligible winger Jason Robertson.

The Los Angeles Kings are wondering if this is the right time to give up future assets. Panarin would love to join the Florida Panthers, but Friedman doesn’t know if they’ll move heaven and earth to get the playmaking winger.

The Minnesota Wild made a big splash by acquiring Quinn Hughes and might be willing to make another, but Friedman wondered how much they have left in the bank to do so.

Friedman believes the Washington Capitals are a serious suitor, citing their willingness to sign Panarin to an extension. He also mentioned the Seattle Kraken, who seek a high-end forward and are reportedly willing to move young center Shane Wright.

Other clubs with potential interest include the San Jose Sharks, Carolina Hurricanes, Anaheim Ducks, Detroit Red Wings, Vegas Golden Knights, Utah Mammoth, New York Islanders, and Philadelphia Flyers.

THE MONTREAL GAZETTE: Stu Cowan was asked if the Canadiens should kick tires on Panarin. He believes they should and will, pointing out that Canadiens president of hockey operations Jeff Gorton signed the winger to his current contract when he was general manager of the Rangers.

Cowan believes Panarin’s age and the Rangers’ asking price would be concerns. Nevertheless, he thinks the playmaking winger could be a good fit on the Canadiens’ top line.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Panarin turns 35 in October, the first season of his new contract. It’s doubtful he’d get anything longer than five years, meaning he’d get $10 million annually on that type of deal. Even with the salary cap rising significantly over the next two seasons, spending that much on a winger heading into his late-thirties is not a wise investment of salary-cap dollars. That will likely scare off most of the rumored suitors.

Based on recent reports, the Avalanche, Ducks, and Stars are out unless Panarin is willing to be a rental player. It’s unlikely that the Rangers will trade him to the Islanders. This isn’t the same thing as sending a depth defenseman like Carson Soucy to the Isles.

The Golden Knights recently acquired Rasmus Andersson and want to re-sign him as a replacement for the permanently sidelined Alex Pietrangelo, so it’s unlikely they’ll have sufficient cap space or tradeable assets to land Panarin. The Wild seek a scoring forward, but their preference is a first-line center.

Panarin is the type of player a Stanley Cup contender acquires. The Flyers and Canadiens aren’t there yet. He’s too old and too expensive for those rebuilding teams, and he might not be interested in joining them.

The Capitals might be willing to do it if this season proves to be Alex Ovechkin’s last, but it would still be a risky investment, given his age and the associated expense. Understandably, the Kraken would be interested, but surely they can find young and more affordable options elsewhere.

The Mammoth could be intrigued by Panarin because he’s a superstar who could generate excitement in their new market, but his asking price could be a deal breaker. The same applies to the Sharks, who have some rising young stars that will soon require new contracts.

COULD THE STARS ACQUIRE EVANDER KANE?

THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS: Lia Assimakopoulos recently cited reports claiming the Stars and Colorado Avalanche have inquired about Vancouver Canucks winger Evander Kane.

The Stars are seeking a top-six left winger. Kane has a history with Stars head coach Glen Gulutzan. It’s also believed the Canucks could be willing to retain part of Kane’s $5.125 million AAV.

However, Kane’s character could come into question given his off-ice issues in recent years. They also wouldn’t have the cap space to acquire him without salary retention by the Canucks.

Assimakopoulos believes Calgary Flames winger (and Plano, Texas native) Blake Coleman might be a better option for the Stars.

WHO COULD THE FLAMES TRADE NEXT?

CALGARY SUN: Kent Wilson looked at which Flames players could be next on the trade block after the club recently shipped out Rasmus Andersson to the Vegas Golden Knights.

Wilson believes Nazem Kadri could draw interest despite the recent decline in his production. The 35-year-old center could want to be moved to a contender, though his age and his contract could be sticking points. He’s signed through 2028-29 with an AAV of $7 million.

Winger Blake Coleman and recently-acquired defenseman Zach Whitecloud could be highly coveted. They both have Stanley Cup experience and have term left on their contracts. It could take a strong offer to pry them away from the Flames.

MCMANN, LAUGHTON COULD DRAW INTEREST

SPORTSNET: Elliotte Friedman believes the Toronto Maple Leafs’ 5-2 loss to the Seattle Kraken on Thursday could send the club into sell mode in the trade market. The loss left the Maple Leafs sitting second-last in the Eastern Conference.

Friedman believes talks about Maple Leafs players will intensify, but doesn’t know if there will be any movement before the Olympic trade freeze goes into effect on Feb. 4. Forwards Bobby McMann and Scott Laughton could draw interest in the trade market. Both are UFA-eligible on July 1.

Some observers might wonder about Auston Matthews’ future with the Maple Leafs. He’s eligible for UFA status in 2028. Friedman doesn’t believe the Leafs are at the stage yet where Matthews could request a trade.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: McMann and Laughton could bring in draft picks that help the Maple Leafs restock their prospect pool.

THE LATEST ON THE PREDATORS

SPORTSNET: During Friday’s episode of “32 Thoughts: The Podcast”, Elliotte Friedman reported the Nashville Predators are open to trading forwards Michael Bunting and Michael McCarron, and defenseman Nick Perbix.

Friedman stated that the New York Islanders attempted to acquire Bunting, but a deal couldn’t be reached. They opted instead for winger Ondrej Palat from the New Jersey Devils.

EDMONTON JOURNAL: David Staples wondered if the Oilers might look at acquiring one of those players.










NHL Rumor Mill – January 29, 2026

by | Jan 29, 2026

NHL Rumor Mill – January 29, 2026

Could the Sharks attempt to acquire Rangers winger Artemi Panarin? Are more moves coming for the Islanders? What’s the latest on the Flames, Blue Jackets, and Kraken? Find out in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.

THE LATEST ON ARTEMI PANARIN

THE ATHLETIC: Vincent Z. Mercogliano was among the pundits reporting yesterday that New York Rangers winger Artemi Panarin was being held out of the lineup for roster management purposes. The 34-year-old Panarin isn’t expected to appear in any more games before the upcoming Olympic break from Feb. 4-22.

New York Rangers winger Artemi Panarin (NHL Images).

Mercogliano stated it is unclear if the Rangers are currently working on a trade or are holding Panarin out of the lineup to avoid injuring a prime asset before the March 6 trade deadline. The Rangers may have worked out the parameters of a deal and are allowing Panarin to negotiate a contract extension.

Panarin reportedly seeks an extension before signing off on a trade. Mercogliano indicated that the winger has been permitted to discuss a new contract with interested clubs ahead of a trade.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: There’s no indication yet that Panarin has given the Rangers a list of preferred trade destinations, but this report suggests his days are numbered in New York.

SAN JOSE HOCKEY NOW: Sheng Peng reports the Sharks have inquired about Panarin and if he’d be willing to sign an extension with them.

Peng stated that this doesn’t mean the Sharks are close to acquiring Panarin. He anticipates there will be plenty of competition for the talented playmaker.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Sharks general manager Mike Grier recently signaled that his club is accelerating its rebuild by acquiring Kiefer Sherwood from the Vancouver Canucks. Landing a big fish such as Panarin would be a major move on his part, and a clear indication that they now believe they are a playoff contender moving forward.

The Rangers are reportedly seeking affordable younger players who can have an immediate impact on their roster, as well as draft picks and prospects. Grier won’t part with young superstar center Macklin Celebrini, rising stars like Will Smith and Yaroslav Askarov, or a promising youngster such as Michael Misa.

It seems unlikely that the Sharks would part with left wingers William Eklund or Collin Graf, but one of them might have to move to make way for Panarin. Long-time Sharks defenseman Mario Ferraro, 27, could be part of the return if he and the Sharks fail to agree to a contract extension. However, Grier has stated he’d prefer to hang onto his pending UFA players for a run at the postseason.

ISLANDERS MIGHT NOT BE DONE MAKING TRADES

NEW YORK POST: Ethan Sears praised Islanders general manager Mathieu Darche for his recent acquisitions of Carson Soucy from the Rangers and winger Ondrej Palat from the New Jersey Devils. Soucy provides much-needed depth for their banged-up blueline, while Palat could provide a boost in their scoring if the change of scenery helps him regain some of the offensive touch that he lost in New Jersey.

Sears pointed out that the Islanders didn’t lose any draft or prospect capital. They still have two first-round picks and the Devils’ third-rounder in this year’s draft to use as trade bait if necessary.

Sears also reported that Darche might not be done making moves before the March 6 trade deadline. The Isles GM said nothing is off the table in terms of potential deals if it would improve this club.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Soucy and Palat additions were affordable moves that should provide some short-term help for the Isles in their quest to nail down a playoff berth this season. It’ll be interesting to see if Darche’s next move is a more substantial one that benefits them over the long term.

UPDATES ON THE FLAMES, BLUE JACKETS, AND KRAKEN

RG.ORG: Marco D’Amico reports the Calgary Flames, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Seattle Kraken are currently drawing the most attention in the trade market.

Despite their recent trade of Rasmus Andersson to the Vegas Golden Knights, the Flames aren’t rushing further into the sellers’ game. Andersson is UFA-eligible, and they didn’t want to risk an injury that would adversely affect his value in the trade market.

Forwards Nazem Kadri and Blake Coleman have been mentioned as trade candidates. However, the Flames aren’t in a hurry to move them.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: That’s because Kadri and Coleman are under contract beyond this season. The Flames can afford to be patient.

Sportsnet reports the Flames haven’t been blown out of the water yet with offers for Kadri. As for Coleman, however, they still feel he’s more likely to be moved before the trade deadline despite being sidelined until after the upcoming Olympic break.

It’s also been rumored that the Flames could flip recently-acquired defenseman Zach Whitecloud at the trade deadline. However, the 29-year-old blueliner has two more years left on his deal. As with Kadri and Coleman, the Flames can afford to be patient.

The Blue Jackets have been getting calls about UFA-eligible players such as captain Boone Jenner and Charlie Coyle. Winger Dmitri Voronkov is signed through next season, but he’s also drawing interest.

However, the Blue Jackets have shown improvement since hiring Rick Bowness as their head coach earlier this month. They still believe they have a shot at the playoffs.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Jackets could peddle their pending UFAs if they fail to gain ground in the standings before March 6. They’ll likely wait and see where they are between the end of the Olympic break and the trade deadline.

The Kraken are still in the playoff hunt, but could become sellers if they continue to slide in the standings. They have pending UFAs such as Jaden Schwartz, Jordan Eberle, Eeli Tolvanen, and Jamie Oleksiak, who could be attractive trade bait. They could also be open to dangling young center Shane Wright for a game-breaking forward.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Kraken are in the same position as the Blue Jackets. They’ll likely wait until after the Olympic break to get a clearer picture of where they are.