NHL Rumor Mill – June 6, 2026

by | Jun 6, 2026

NHL Rumor Mill – June 6, 2026

The latest speculation on potential trade destinations for Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin, an update on Blues center Robert Thomas, and the Ducks’ offseason wish list in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.

WHICH CLUBS COULD BE SUITORS FOR DYLAN LARKIN?

THE ATHLETIC: Pierre LeBrun believes it would be a mistake to underestimate Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman’s ability to get a solid return to Dylan Larkin after the latter requested a trade.

Yzerman faced similar circumstances before. As GM of the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2014, Yzerman got a good return for winger Martin St. Louis after he requested a trade to the New York Rangers. Three years later, he met winger Jonathan Drouin’s trade request by shipping him to the Montreal Canadiens for defenseman Mikhail Sergachev.

Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin (NHL Images).

LeBrun indicated that Yzerman has received a short list of preferred trade destinations from the Larkin camp. However, he speculated that list could change or grow. LeBrun also thinks it’s not to either side’s advantage to play hardball in this situation, but should instead try to avoid this dragging out throughout the summer and into next season.

According to LeBrun, between 12 and 15 clubs could inquire about Larkin. Obvious potential fits include the Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota Wild, and Montreal Canadiens. The Kings need a replacement for retired captain Anze Kopitar, the Wild seek an established first-line center, and the Canadiens need a second-line center.

LeBrun wondered if the Dallas Stars would be a suitor if they fail to re-sign winger Jason Robertson. He also sees the Boston Bruins as a potential fit.

Meanwhile, Max Bultman wondered where the Detroit Red Wings go from here after team captain Dylan Larkin requested a trade this week.

Larkin’s request complicates the Red Wings’ offseason plans. They must now add a top-line center to their existing needs of a top-line left wing, a second-line center, bottom-six scoring, and toughness.

Bultman wondered if trading Larkin would force the Red Wings to retool their roster around their young core of talent rather than push for the playoffs next season. He also pondered the future of winger Alex DeBrincat, who turns 29 in December and is a year away from unrestricted free-agent eligibility.

PIONEER PRESS: Dan Mitzutani believes the Minnesota Wild should pursue a trade for Larkin to address their need for a first-line center. He believes the Red Wings will seek a substantial return, suggesting it could cost the Wild a couple of prospects along with a haul of draft picks.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Wild beat writers Michael Russo and Joe Smith of The Athletic also believe GM Bill Guerin will look into acquiring Larkin. They believe Guerin won’t be afraid to part with young center Danila Yurov or prospects Charlie Stramel, Hunter Haight, or Adam Benak. However, the sticking point could be which players the Red Wings would want from the Wild’s roster.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Much will depend on how many teams are on Larkin’s list of destinations. If it remains a short list, and if the Wild are on it, that could work in their favor when it comes to the return. The more teams on that list, the more the Wild might have to pay to outbid other clubs.

THE HOCKEY NEWS: Karine Hains believes Larkin would be ideal for the Canadiens as their second-line center.

The Red Wings will seek a substantial return, which Hains believes the Canadiens are well-positioned to provide that. They have the prospects, roster players, draft picks, and salary-cap space to pull it off.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Wings will almost certainly ask for center Michael Hage, the Canadiens’ top prospect. Defenseman David Reinbacher or winger Alexander Zharovsky could also be part of it. The Habs could also offer a young roster forward such as Oliver Kapanen or Zach Bolduc in the deal, but the Wings could seek someone more substantial, such as Ivan Demidov, which would be a deal-breaker for Montreal. It would also cost the Canadiens their first-round pick in this year’s or next year’s draft.

THE ATHLETIC: Fluto Shinzawa believes the Bruins should look into acquiring Larkin. However, he considers it unlikely that they’ll land him.

One reason is Shinzawa doubts they have sufficient trade assets to outbid other clubs. He suggested a hypothetical offer of center Pavel Zacha, young defenseman Mason Lohrei, prospect center Dean Letourneau, and the 26th overall pick in this year’s draft.

Shinzawa doesn’t see that deal happening unless the Red Wings are permitted to speak with Zacha about a contract extension. Even then, it’s debatable that the return would improve the Wings.

THE ATHLETIC: Peter Baugh believes New York Rangers GM Chris Drury could look into acquiring Larkin. The addition of the Red Wings captain no longer makes the Rangers’ Vincent Trocheck the top center in the trade market, though the latter will still draw plenty of interest in the trade market.

Baugh wondered if the Red Wings would be interested in Trocheck if they trade Larkin and don’t get a top-six center in return. In that case, Drury’s asking price could be a young quality player such as Nate Danielson or Marco Kasper, a draft pick, or a combination of the two, as well as a center such as J.T. Compher to slot in behind Mika Zibanejad.

NEW JERSEY HOCKEY NOW: James Nichols suggests pursuing Larkin could be New Devils GM Sunny Mehta’s first chance to make his first big splash.

However, the Devils already have Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes as their top two centers. A swap of Hischier for Larkin doesn’t work because it seems that the former’s contract extension talks are likely to find a resolution.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Barring the unforeseen, I expect Hischier will sign an extension, meaning the Devils do not need to pursue Larkin.

PITTSBURGH HOCKEY NOW: Dan Kingerski believes it’ll cost the Penguins one or two first-round picks, a prospect, and an NHL player for Larkin, though the asking price could be even higher. Promising Ben Kindel would likely have to be part of the deal.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Larkin likely wants to join a contender, which the Penguins currently aren’t despite exceeding expectations this season by making the playoffs. It’s doubtful they’re among his list of trade destinations.

FLORIDA HOCKEY NOW: George Richards isn’t ruling out the possibility of the Panthers acquiring Larkin, pointing to GM Bill Zito’s history of making big moves in the trade market.

An offer from the Panthers would have to include their 2026 first-round pick, which is ninth overall. The cost of acquiring Larkin could also include center Anton Lundell, perhaps forward Mackie Samoskevich, and/or Sandis Vilmanis and more.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Panthers are already deep at center with Aleksander Barkov, Lundell, and the versatile Sam Bennett. Larkin might not be a fit here.

THE ATHLETIC: Jonas Siegel believes the Toronto Maple Leafs should be bidders for Larkin if they can afford it. They only have one sure thing at center, and that’s Auston Matthews, assuming he returns with the Leafs next season.

Siegel doesn’t believe the Leafs would put the first-overall pick on the table, but winger Matthew Knies might be. However, if Leafs GM John Chayka were to move Knies, Siegel believes he would lean toward a top defenseman over Larkin. He also doesn’t think the Wings would be excited by an offer of Easton Cowan, Ben Danford, and Colorado’s first-round pick (27th overall) in this year’s draft.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Like the Wild, if the Maple Leafs are on a short list of Larkin’s trade destinations, the less they might have to pay to get him. If that list is larger, the more they’ll have to pay, and they might not be able to outbid other teams.

ROBERT THOMAS OFF THE TRADE BLOCK?

FANDUEL SPORTS NETWORK’s Andy Strickland claims the Robert Thomas trade rumors can be put to rest. He claimed the St. Louis Blues are not shopping their first-line center, and expects Thomas will be on their roster when training camp opens in September.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Thomas was a fixture in the rumor mill before the March trade deadline, and has frequently surfaced as an offseason trade candidate.

However, I’d grown skeptical in recent weeks that Thomas was ever available in the first place. Since the trade deadline, he stated he was never approached about waiving his no-trade clause, adding he wants to remain with the Blues. GM Doug Armstrong said he was never actively shopping Thomas, explaining that he based his high asking price on how much he valued him.

The real clincher was reading a report last month claiming the Blues rejected an offer from the Wild that included promising goaltender Jesper Wallstedt and young center Danila Yurov. That told me they were never serious about moving Thomas.

THE LATEST ON THE DUCKS

THE HOCKEY NEWS: Patrick Present recently looked at what he believes will be the Anaheim Ducks’ offseason shopping list.

A right-shot defenseman tops that list, along with a second-line center, and a top-nine winger.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Present didn’t speculate as to which players the Ducks might target to address those issues. Nevertheless, they could be worth monitoring in this summer’s trade market. They have plenty of young players and promising prospects to draw on for trade bait.










NHL Rumor Mill – May 26, 2026

by | May 26, 2026

NHL Rumor Mill – May 26, 2026

Check out the latest on Devils captain Nico Hischier, Senators captain Brady Tkachuk, Kraken center Matty Beniers, Red Wings goalie Sebastian Cossa, and Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.

WILL THE DEVILS RE-SIGN OR TRADE NICO HISCHIER?

THE ATHLETIC: Pierre LeBrun reports several teams are keeping an eye on what happens to New Jersey Devils captain Nico Hischier this summer.

The 27-year-old center has a year remaining on his contract with a salary cap hit of $7.25 million. He can sign a contract extension starting on July 1.

LeBrun reports preliminary discussions between Devils general manager Sunny Mehta and Hischier’s agent, Allain Roy, have been “amicable and positive.” Nevertheless, Mehta will want clarity on Hischier’s intentions. LeBrun doubts he’ll want to go into next season with his captain on an expiring contract.

The Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota Wild, and Montreal Canadiens would be among the clubs that will be interested if Hischier becomes available in this summer’s trade market. However, LeBrun believes an extension is the more likely outcome, though the discussions are at “an early and delicate stage”.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: It could cost the Devils up to $13 million annually to re-sign Hischier. They have over $47 million in projected cap space for 2027-28, which would be the first season for his new contract. A new contract for Simon Nemec this summer could cost $9 million, but that could be offset by finding a suitable trade destination for blueliner Dougie Hamilton.

ARE THE PANTHERS PURSUING BRADY TKACHUK?

FLORIDA HOCKEY NOW: Alan Greenberg reports rumors “continue to swirl” claiming Panthers GM Bill Zito is attempting to acquire Brady Tkachuk from the Ottawa Senators.

Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk (NHL Images).

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Tkachuk might one day be united with his brother, Matthew, on the Panthers, but that day hasn’t arrived yet. Brady and Senators GM Steve Staios recently shot down any notion that he wants a trade or that they’re going to listen to trade offers.

If Tkachuk became available in this summer’s trade market, it would cost the Panthers at least two of their good young players, such as Anton Lundell and Mackie Samoskevich. Unless Tkachuk only wants to go to Florida, the Panthers are unlikely to outbid other clubs that would be interested in his services.

The best way for the Panthers to land Tkachuk would be to wait until 2028, when he’s slated to become an unrestricted free agent, assuming he wouldn’t re-sign with the Senators before then. That’s assuming they’ll have sufficient cap space to sign him.

WOULD MATTY BENIERS BE A GOOD TRADE TARGET FOR THE FLYERS?

PHILLY HOCKEY NOW: William James suggested Matty Beniers of the Seattle Kraken could be a good “under-the-radar” trade target to address the Flyers’ need for depth at center.

With Chandler Stephenson locked up long-term and promising Berkly Catton knocking at the door, the 23-year-old Beniers could become the perfect trade candidate. James speculated it might take a scoring winger to tempt the Kraken.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Trading Beniers to add a scoring winger would address one issue while creating another. The Kraken need more offense, but they’re unlikely to trade their first-line center to get him. Catton has promise, but he’s not ready for first-line duty yet, while Stephenson is best-suited as their second-line center.

SUGGESTED DESTINATIONS FOR RED WINGS GOALIE SEBASTIAN COSSA

DETROIT HOCKEY NOW: Kevin Allen noted the rise of promising goalies Trey Augustine and Michal Postava has made Sebastian Cossa the subject of trade rumors. It’s been reported that GM Steve Yzerman is considering moving the 23-year-old netminder.

Allen suggested the Edmonton Oilers, Philadelphia Flyers, Florida Panthers, Ottawa Senators, and New York Rangers as potential trade destinations.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Cossa was expected to become the Red Wings’ backup goaltender next season. He could fill that role with those other clubs, but his struggles this season might be a cause for concern.

ARE THE PREDATORS INTERESTED IN THE AVALANCHE’S GENERAL MANAGER?

SPORTSNET: Elliotte Friedman believes Colorado Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland is a “logical target” for the Nashville Predators to fill their GM role.

Friedman doesn’t believe it’s guaranteed that MacFarland is leaving the Avalanche or going to Nashville. However, he thinks the amount of time it’s taking the Predators to find a new GM suggests they’re waiting to talk to somebody.

It’s been reported that MacFarland would be taking a VP of hockey operations position with the Predators. However, Friedman said he doesn’t think the Predators have permission to speak with him or that any agreement is in place.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Predators could be waiting until the Avalanche’s postseason is over before seeking permission to talk to MacFarland. Even then, there’s no certainty they’ll be allowed to, especially since he’s a finalist for the GM of the Year award.










NHL Rumor Mill – May 18, 2026

by | May 18, 2026

NHL Rumor Mill – May 18, 2026

Will the Wild soon get clarity about Quinn Hughes’ plans? Which areas must the Maple Leafs improve this summer? What’s the latest on the Panthers and Red Wings? Find out in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.

THE LATEST WILD SPECULATION

SPORTSNET: Michael Amato believes the Minnesota Wild need clarity from Quinn Hughes about his plans as soon as possible.

The 26-year-old superstar defenseman is a year away from becoming an unrestricted free agent. He can sign a contract extension with the Wild on July 1, and he’s indicated that he’s open to that option, but he’s also comfortable with starting next season without one.

Minnesota Wild defenseman Quinn Hughes (NHL Images).

If there is no commitment from Hughes on an extension, Amato believes Wild general manager Bill Guerin will have little choice but to shop the former Norris Trophy winner. His trade value would be higher this summer than it would be as a rental player next season.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: It’s widely believed that Hughes would one day like to play alongside his brothers, Jack and Luke Hughes of the New Jersey Devils. However, he sounded like he really enjoyed playing with the Wild this season and seems genuinely interested in discussing an extension with Guerin.

However, the cost of re-signing Hughes is what’s going to be the determining factor for the Wild. They’ve already invested a league-leading average annual value of $17 million for eight seasons in superstar winger Kirill Kaprizov. As one of the NHL’s elite defensemen, Hughes would be justified in seeking a similar AAV.

The Wild have a projected $48.4 million in cap space for 2027-28, which would be the first season of Hughes’ next contract. Nevertheless, some of that cap room will be whittled down by the cost of re-signing or replacing key players between now and then, which could make it difficult to meet whatever Hughes’ asking price might be.

TWINCITIES.COM: Jess Myers reports Filip Gustavsson still sees himself as part of the Wild’s goalie tandem with Jesper Wallstedt next season.

Gustavsson went from being the Wild’s starting goalie during the regular season to backing up Wallstedt during the playoffs. His five-year contract extension with an AAV of $6.8 million begins on July 1.

Following the Olympic break, Gustavsson struggled down the stretch, prompting head coach John Hynes to give Wallstedt the nod during the postseason. Gutavsson said he had no problem with that, admitting that his game wasn’t where he wanted it to be after the Olympics.

Wallstedt was the subject of trade rumors before the March deadline. Gustavsson acknowledged that his name might surface in the offseason rumor mill, but he’s unconcerned about that possibility.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Guerin could peddle Gustavsson to free up cap space to make additions elsewhere for next season, and to create room for a long-term extension for Quinn Hughes. However, he has a full no-movement clause for this season and for the next two years on his new deal, giving him complete control over that potential situation.

A PROPOSED OFFSEASON SHOPPING LIST FOR THE MAPLE LEAFS

SPORTSNET: Justin Bourne recently looked at what should be on the Toronto Maple Leafs’ offseason shopping list.

Bourne believes the Maple Leafs must shore up their depth at center. It’s rumored that Vincent Trocheck could be among the players on their list of trade targets. The 33-year-old New York Rangers center has three years remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $5.275 million.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: That depends on whether the Leafs could meet the Rangers’ high asking price, and if Trocheck is willing to play for a Canadian team in the Eastern Conference. He’s stated that he prefers to play for a team on or near the East Coast of the United States.

Bourne doesn’t see the Maple Leafs trading winger Matthew Knies even if they draft Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg with the first-overall pick next month. Moving out the 23-year-old wouldn’t fit with their plans to bounce back next season.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: John Chayka, the Leafs new GM, has already spoken highly of Knies, sounding as though he intends to retain the young power forward.

Most observers believe Morgan Rielly needs a fresh start elsewhere, and it’s rumored that he agrees with that assessment. If he is moved out, the Leafs will need two new defensemen. Bourne isn’t averse to them signing Darren Raddysh if the Tampa Bay Lightning blueliner becomes available in this summer’s free-agent market. However, they’d have to pursue another via trade, given the lack of depth in the UFA market.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Signing Raddysh would be a big gamble for the Leafs or any other NHL club. The 30-year-old’s previous career-high was 37 points in 73 games in 2024-25 before his 70-point campaign this season. Investing big money in him could come back to haunt his new club if he reverts to his 30-point form.

When it comes to the Leafs’ next head coach, Bourne prefers someone with NHL experience, but not a lengthy resume. He suggested former Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft, Tampa Bay Lightning assistant coach Jeff Halpern, and Abbotsford Canucks bench boss Manny Malhotra, who has NHL assistant coaching experience.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Malhotra is among Luke Fox’s seven suggested candidates for the Leafs’ coaching job. His list also included former Vegas Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy, Minnesota Wild assistant coach (and former New York Islanders head coach) Jack Capuano, David Carle of the NCAA’s Denver Pioneers, Ottawa Senators assistant coach (and former NHL head coach) Mike Yeo, Toronto Marlies coach John Gruden, and New York Rangers assistant coach Joe Sacco.

WHO’S AVAILABLE FOR THE PANTHERS IF THEY DON’T RE-SIGN BOBROVSKY?

FLORIDA HOCKEY NOW: George Richards recently looked at potential trade and free-agent options for the Panthers if long-time starting goalie Sergei Bobrovsky departs via free agency on July 1.

The pickings are slim in the UFA market, where the best option besides Bobrovsky is Stuart Skinner. He backstopped the Edmonton Oilers to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals against the Panthers, but his inconsistency led to his midseason trade to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Connor Hellebucyk could be available, given his recent comments about his unhappiness with the Winnipeg Jets’ direction. He could demand a trade, but with four years left on his contract, it might not force the Jets’ hand. Acquiring him could be expensive.

Another option could be Jordan Binnington of the St. Louis Blues. He’s a year away from UFA eligibility, carries a 10-team no-trade list, and would be more affordable to acquire than Hellebuyck.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The most obvious option for the Panthers is re-signing the 37-year-old Bobrovsky, but inking him to a long-term deal at this stage of his career is risky, especially given the decline in his performance this season.

It’s doubtful the Panthers could outbid other teams for Hellebuyck unless Florida is the only destination he’ll accept. Despite his unhappiness over how this season ended, there’s no indication that he and the Jets are about to part ways.

Binnington would be a more affordable option, but the Blues could hang onto him for next season and listen to trade offers if they’re out of playoff contention before the trade deadline.

THE LATEST RED WINGS GOALIE SPECULATION

THE ATHLETIC: Max Bultman recently reported on the rise of promising Red Wings goaltender Michal Postava and how it might affect Sebastian Cossa’s chances of cracking the Wings roster next season.

Postava’s solid play for the Red Wings’ AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids earned him the starter’s job during the Calder Cup playoffs. It’s raised questions about Cossa’s future, who will not be waiver-exempt next season.

Cossa could become an offseason trade candidate. Bultman suggested the Edmonton Oilers would be an obvious fit, but the need for goalies around the league could make the list of potential suitors a long one.










NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – May 12, 2026

by | May 12, 2026

NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – May 12, 2026

The Avalanche take a commanding series lead over the Wild, Shane Doan parts ways with the Maple Leafs, the Sedins to move up in the Canucks’ front office, and more in today’s NHL Morning Coffee Headlines.

NHL.COM: The Colorado Avalanche have taken a 3-1 lead in their second-round series with the Minnesota Wild following a 5-2 victory in Game 4 on Tuesday. Parker Kelly broke a 2-2 tie, goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood made 19 saves in his first start in this postseason, and Nazem Kadri scored to extend his points streak to five games.

Colorado Avalanche center Nazem Kadri (NHL Images).

Danila Yurov and Nico Sturm scored while Jesper Wallstedt stopped 29 of 32 shots for the Wild.

The Avalanche can wrap up this series in Game 5 on Wednesday in Colorado.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: There was an ugly moment during the first period when Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson butt-ended Wild forward Michael McCarron in the left side of his face as the two scuffled on the ice. Manson received a double-minor, resulting in Yurov’s game-opening goal.

McCarron was still furious about the incident during his between-period interview with ESPN’s P.K. Subban, calling Manson a dirty player. After the game, Manson claimed he wasn’t trying to butt-end McCarron but was attempting to punch him.

Manson had returned to action after missing several games with an upper-body injury. He and forward Joel Kiviranta’s return couldn’t have come at a better time for the Avalanche, as forward Artturi Lehkonen and Sam Malinski missed this game with upper-body injuries.

THE HOCKEY NEWS: Shane Doan and the Toronto Maple Leafs have mutually agreed to part company. Doan joined the Maple Leafs in 2023 as a special advisor to the general manager. With John Chayka taking over that role, Doan’s contract will not be renewed.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Doan and Chayka have an unpleasant history from their days when the former was captain of the Arizona Coyotes and the latter was the club’s GM. In 2017, Chayka told Doan that the Coyotes no longer required his services, giving the club’s long-time star no proper send-off or ceremony to honor his tenure.

Doan has been connected to the Vancouver Canucks as they reshape their front office. He could also land with the Los Angeles Kings and Nashville Predators.

THE PROVINCE: Speaking of the Canucks, franchise icons Daniel and Henrik Sedin have reportedly accepted larger roles within the club’s hockey operations department. They’ve spent the past five seasons with the Canucks in a player development role.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: It remains to be seen what the Sedins’ new roles will be, but it won’t be as general managers. The Canucks are reportedly narrowing down their list of prospective candidates for that job.

EDMONTON JOURNAL: Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard may have suffered a concussion during Game 1 of the first-round series with the Anaheim Ducks. Bouchard finished that game and played in the remainder of that series, which the Ducks won in six games.

THE HOCKEY NEWS: New York Islanders rookie star Matthew Schaefer is teaming up with Northwell Health to create a child support center in honor of his mother, Jennifer, who passed away from breast cancer in 2024.

TSN: Buffalo Sabres forward Beck Malenstyn and Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj were fined by the league for their actions in Game 3 of their second-round playoff series on Sunday.

Malenstyn was fined over $3,500 for goaltender interference when he deliberately ran Canadiens goalie Jakub Dobes. Xhekaj was fined over $3,300 for roughing Sabres forward Sam Carrick when he sucker-punched the latter in the dying seconds of the game.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: We’ll see if those fines serve as a warning to both teams to dial back the chippy play and after-the-whistle antics that were prevalent in Game 3.

BUFFALO HOCKEY NOW: Despite two ugly losses in Games 2 and 3, Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff remains confident in his group as they attempt to reset for Game 4 in Montreal on Tuesday.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Canadiens dominated the Sabres in those two contests. Another lopsided loss in Game 4 could be demoralizing for the Sabres while giving the Habs a commanding lead in the series.

TVA SPORTS: The Canadiens have recalled forwards Owen Beck and Florian Xhekaj and defensemen David Reinbacher and Adam Engstrom after their AHL affiliate in Laval was eliminated from the Calder Cup playoffs. The foursome will skate with the Canadiens in practice and will be available as reserve players.

LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL: Golden Knights’ head coach John Tortorella hopes Tomas Hertl’s late goal in Game 4 of their series against the Anaheim Ducks helps the veteran forward regain his scoring touch. It was his first goal since March 4.

TSN: The Carolina Hurricanes signed forward Mark Jankowski to a two-year contract extension worth an average annual value of $1.85 million.

NEW JERSEY HOCKEY NOW: Devils general manager Sunny Mehta hired Braden Birch as his new assistant general manager. Birch is the former Florida Panthers director of hockey operations and salary cap management.










NHL Rumor Mill – May 9, 2026

by | May 9, 2026

NHL Rumor Mill – May 9, 2026

What options do the Sharks, Jets, Panthers, Devils, and Penguins have with their first-round picks in this year’s draft? Find out in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.

THE ATHLETIC: Mark Lazerus wondered what the San Jose Sharks might do with the second-overall pick in this year’s draft.

The lack of quality depth in this summer’s unrestricted free agent market could create more activity in the trade market.

Dallas Stars winger Jason Robertson (NHL Images).

Lazerus mused over whether the Dallas Stars might be willing to part with Jason Robertson for the Sharks’ first-rounder. The 26-year-old winger is a restricted free agent with arbitration rights. If unable to re-sign Robertson, swapping him for the second-overall pick would give the Stars the chance to replenish their prospect pool.

If Robertson isn’t available, Lazerus suggested looking into the availability of St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas or Toronto Maple Leafs winger Matthew Knies. He also wondered if Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse might be available.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Oilers general manager Stan Bowman would be thrilled to get the second-overall pick in this year’s draft for Nurse. However, the latter has a full no-movement clause, and his declining performance won’t make him enticing for the Sharks.

SPORTSNET: Ryan Dixon believes Winnipeg Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff must consider all his options with his first-round pick (eighth overall) in this year’s draft.

It’s rare for a top-10 draft pick to be moved ahead of the draft. However, the Jets have a long-running need for a reliable second-line center. Given their high aspirations to become a Stanley Cup contender, it would make sense to see what their pick might fetch in this summer’s trade market.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Dixon expects Cheveldayoff to retain that pick and use it to select a promising young player who could help the Jets down the road. Still, one has to believe that he would be intrigued if he got a solid offer for that pick.

FLORIDA HOCKEY NOW: George Richards pondered the possibility of the Panthers using their first-round pick (ninth overall) to bolster their current roster.

Richards reports there’s speculation that Panthers GM Bill Zito could use that pick as trade capital. He pointed out that Zito has traded every first-round pick since selecting Mackie Samoskevich in 2021. The Panthers won’t have another first-rounder again until 2029.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Panthers remain in “win-now” mode and could move that pick for an established player who would provide an immediate, significant boost to their roster. However, Richards would not be surprised if Zito retains that pick. He envisioned a scenario in which the Panthers GM bundles his first-rounder with a couple of second-rounders to move up in the draft order.

NEW JERSEY HOCKEY NOW: James Nichols believes the Devils should use their 2026 first-rounder (12th overall) to pursue a scoring forward. Their 2.76 goals-per-game average ranked 27th overall this season.

Nicholls’ suggested trade targets include Matthew Knies of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Jordan Kyrou of the St. Louis Blues, Jason Robertson of the Dallas Stars, and Alex DeBrincat of the Detroit Red Wings.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Kyrou might be the only player on this list who might be available in this summer’s trade market. However, that depends on whether he’ll waive his full no-trade clause.

THE HOCKEY NEWS: Kelsey Surmacz wondered if this would be the summer when the Pittsburgh Penguins would trade their first-round pick. They hold the 22nd-overall pick, which they could use as a trade chip to add a young NHL-ready player.

Surmacz noted that there are some opportunities in this summer’s trade market. She believes the Dallas Stars will find a way to re-sign RFA winger Jason Robertson, but that could expose other high-upside players such as defenseman Thomas Harley or center Mavrik Bourque.

There’s uncertainty about Auston Matthews’ future with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Even if he’s unavailable, Matthew Knies or Nick Robertson might be trade possibilities.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Bourque and Nick Robertson seem more likely to be available than Harley or Knies. Regardless, Penguins GM Kyle Dubas could be open to moving his first-rounder if a suitable young player becomes obtainable in this summer’s trade market.










NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – May 3, 2026

by | May 3, 2026

NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – May 3, 2026

The Hurricanes defeat the Flyers in the opening game of their second-round series, the schedule for the second round is released, the latest on the Oilers, and more in today’s NHL Morning Coffee Headlines.

NHL.COM: Carolina Hurricanes winger Logan Stankoven scored twice to lead his club over the Philadelphia Flyers 3-0 in Game 1 of their best-of-seven second-round playoff series. Frederik Andersen had a 19-save shutout, and Jackson Blake had a goal and an assist for the Hurricanes. Dan Vladar stopped 20 shots for the Flyers.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Flyers played better in the third period, but it was all Hurricanes in the first period and most of the second. Flyers head coach Rick Tocchet admitted his team wasn’t mentally prepared for this contest. He believes they were still riding the emotional high of making the playoffs and winning their first-round series against the Pittsburgh Penguins

Carolina Hurricanes forward Logan Stankoven (NHL Images)

Carolina’s second line of Stankoven, Blake, and Taylor Hall remains a scoring force in this postseason.

Stankoven is tied with Minnesota Wild winger Matt Boldy and Tampa Bay Lightning winger Brandon Hagel for this postseason’s goal-scoring lead with six goals. He’s also set a franchise record with a five-game playoff goal-scoring streak. Four of his six goals were series-openers.

Carolina winger Nikolaj Ehlers returned to action after a lower-body injury sidelined him from Game 4 of the Hurricanes’ first-round series with the Ottawa Senators. Defenseman Alexander Nikishin remained out of their roster as he continues to recover from a concussion.

Flyers forward Owen Tippett missed this contest with an undisclosed injury and is considered day-to-day.

NHL.COM: The schedule for the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs was released.

Game 1 of the series between the Hurricanes and Flyers began Saturday. Game 2 will be on Monday, May 4, in Carolina.

The opening game of the series between the Minnesota Wild and Colorado Avalanche will be on Sunday, May 3, in Colorado. Wild center Joel Eriksson Ek is questionable for Game 1 of this series with a lower-body injury.

Game 1 of the series between the Anaheim Ducks and the Vegas Golden Knights begins on Monday, May 4, in Las Vegas.

The Buffalo Sabres will face the Montreal Canadiens or the Tampa Bay Lightning. Game 1 of that series begins on Wednesday, May 6, in Buffalo. The Canadiens and Lightning face off in Game 7 in Tampa Bay on Sunday.

EDMONTON JOURNAL: Oilers center Leon Draisaitl was frank about his club’s performance and his concern about their future. Speaking with the media on Saturday, Draisaitl said he felt the Oilers “are not trending in the right direction,” adding that they’ve taken “big steps backward.” He warned that the Oilers must get a grip on this situation and return to the right direction.

Oilers captain Connor McDavid concurred with Draisaitl’s assessment of the club’s direction. Following their first-round elimination by the Anaheim Ducks, McDavid said he felt the Oilers were “an average team all year.” He said he still felt that way, adding that he and Draisaitl deserve their share of the blame, and that they can all be better and need to improve.

“There’s no doubt everybody knows what we’re trying to do here in Edmonton, and it’s no secret,” McDavid said, referring to their goal of winning the Stanley Cup. “We’re pressing pretty hard, so the patience is obviously worn pretty thin.”

McDavid also shot down trade speculation that surfaced during and after the series against the Ducks. “I want to win, and I want to win here in Edmonton. That’s my focus.”

However, McDavid declined to comment on whether he’ll play out his upcoming two-year contract with the Oilers. “I’m not going to get into all that,” he said. “The only thing that matters is competing for the big trophy. That’s all that matters. And if I feel that’s here, then yeah.”

McDavid also confirmed that he played with an injury during the Ducks series, suffering a fractured bone in his left foot in Game 2.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Oilers GM Stan Bowman acknowledged the club isn’t where they want to be while pointing to the positives from this season, such as the evolution of players Vasily Podkolzin, Matt Savoie, and Josh Samanski.

Nevertheless, the comments from McDavid and Draisaitl are a shot across Bowman’s bow. He’ll face a daunting task attempting to improve the Oilers. I’ll have more about that in the Sunday NHL Rumor Roundup.

SPORTSNET: The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to hold a press conference on Monday to officially announce the hiring of former team captain Mats Sundin and former Arizona Coyotes general manager John Chayka to join their front office.

It’s been previously reported that the Leafs were interested in hiring Sundin as vice president of hockey operations and Chayka as general manager.

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Reports of Sundin and Chayka being the frontrunners for those positions drew a nervous vibe from Leafs Nation. It will be interesting to see what those two have in store for the club during this offseason.

BOSTON HOCKEY NOW: Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy will have an in-person meeting with the league’s department of player safety for slashing Buffalo Sabres forward Zach Benson during Game 6 of their first-round series.

THE SPORTING NEWS: Speaking of the Bruins, forward James Hagens is reportedly joining Team USA for the upcoming IIHF World Championship.

OTTAWA SUN: Senators forward Ridly Greig will have a virtual hearing with the department of player safety on Monday for his sucker punch to the head of Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Sean Walker during Game 4 of their first-round series.

FLORIDA HOCKEY NOW: Panthers owner Vinnie Viola got his second Kentucky Derby win on Saturday. Viola is a co-owner of Golden Tempo, a 23-1 long shot that won the 152nd running of the Derby at Churchill Downs.

NEW YORK POST: The Rangers promoted assistant director of player development Tanner Glass as their new director of player development.