In today’s NHL rumors rundown, Sergei Bobrovsky is already making a significant impression inside the Toronto Maple Leafs’ locker room. Meanwhile, the Columbus Blue Jackets and Adam Fantilli remain stuck in contract negotiations. Kirill Marchenko’s trade situation could be complicated by the contract he’ll want on his next deal, and former NHL forward Kevin Hayes has announced his retirement from professional hockey after a brief stint in the KHL.
Sergei Bobrovsky Already Making His Voice Heard in Toronto
Sergei Bobrovsky hasn’t been with the Toronto Maple Leafs for long, but the veteran goaltender is already becoming an important voice in the locker room. Elliotte Friedman said on the 32 Thoughts Podcast that Bobrovsky doesn’t say a lot, but when he does speak, teammates listen.
“I’ve heard has become one of the biggest voices in that room, that when he talks, mountains move,” Friedman said.
Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Sergei Bobrovsky makes a save as Montreal Canadiens forward Alexandre Texier looks for a rebound (Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images)
Auston Matthews also praised the addition of the two-time Stanley Cup champion, calling it an “absolute treat” to have Bobrovsky around. Matthews pointed to the goaltender’s professionalism, preparation and experience as qualities that have already stood out to him.
For a Maple Leafs team hoping to take a significant step forward, Bobrovsky’s experience and leadership could play a significant role.
Adam Fantilli Contract Talks Continue in Columbus
Adam Fantilli has now missed four straight days of Columbus Blue Jackets training camp while remaining without a contract. The 21-year-old is coming off a career-best 24-goal, 59-point season, making his situation the most notable unfinished restricted free-agent storyline.
Darren Dreger suggested the two sides are using comparable contracts as leverage but doesn’t believe there is significant animosity between Fantilli, his agent Pat Brisson, and the Blue Jackets. Dreger expects a deal to eventually get done before the regular season begins.
Friedman also noted that Cutter Gauthier’s recent contract could actually help Columbus more than Fantilli when it comes to establishing the market. The size of Gauthier’s deal gives the Blue Jackets another significant comparable as they work toward determining what Fantilli’s next contract should look like.
Kirill Marchenko Trade Could Come Down to His Next Contract
Kirill Marchenko continues to generate interest around the NHL, but teams considering a trade for the Columbus forward may have to solve more than one problem. According to Dreger, the acquisition cost could be high. Then there is Marchenko’s next contract.
Dreger suggested teams could be looking at a contract worth roughly $12 million per season. That would dramatically change the equation for clubs such as the Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens, all of whom have significant money committed to other stars.
Friedman added that Columbus may want to know what Fantilli’s contract looks like before seriously moving Marchenko. The Blue Jackets may take salary back in a trade, and they don’t want to create another salary-cap problem.
There is also a belief Columbus could wait until the season begins before deciding how to proceed. “Depending on who you talk to, you get different opinions on wether or not Columbus really wants to do this and especially now. I think most people believe that Columbus wants to start the season and go and then decide what they want to do…”
Kevin Hayes Announces Retirement From Professional Hockey
Former NHL forward Kevin Hayes has announced his retirement from professional hockey after just five games in the KHL. Hayes signed with Kazan Ak-Bars after being unable to secure an NHL contract during the offseason, but his stint in Russia ended quickly.
Hayes recorded no points and was a minus-one over those five games. He has now decided to step away from hockey altogether, saying his body no longer allows him to perform at the level he expects from himself.
“I have decided to end my hockey career,” Hayes said in a statement released through the KHL. “I can no longer play at the level I am capable of because my body does not allow me to perform at my best. And I cannot accept not being in top form.”
The decision brings an unexpected end to Hayes’ professional career.
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