In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Nashville Predators could have several big-name veterans available if their season continues to unravel, while the Detroit Red Wings are working with Simon Edvinsson. Meanwhile, the New York Rangers are weighing their goaltending options after losing Igor Shesterkin for the season. Finally, the Philadelphia Flyers are off to a historically poor start, and speculation continues to connect Detroit captain Dylan Larkin to the Montreal Canadiens.
Matt Duchene Out 3 Months
The Dallas Stars have announced that Matt Duchene underwent core muscle surgery and will miss three months. The Stars were already thin up front entering the season, and Duchene’s surgery will only reinforce their need to win games with strong defense and goaltending.
It will be interesting to see if they look at someone like Patrik Laine or Vladimir Tarasenko. Both will be inexpensive options.
Predators Could Have Several Veterans Available for Trade
Pierre LeBrun believes the Nashville Predators could face some difficult decisions over the next year or two, particularly if they aren’t in playoff contention. Ryan O’Reilly, 35, is a pending unrestricted free agent who could become a highly sought-after trade target if Nashville falls out of the race by the new year.
Steven Stamkos remains an elite goal scorer with two seasons remaining on his contract, including this one. Jonathan Marchessault has three years left on his deal, while Filip Forsberg is signed through 2029-30. Roman Josi, meanwhile, continues to play at a high level on the blue line at age 36.
LeBrun stressed that these players aren’t necessarily going anywhere, but trade conversations could eventually emerge. Stamkos has said that he’s open to staying as long as the Predators try to remain competitive.
Red Wings Setting a High Price for Simon Edvinsson
The Detroit Red Wings reportedly aren’t interested in moving defenseman Simon Edvinsson without receiving a substantial return. According to Elliotte Friedman, the asking price is high, with Detroit seeking either a really good player or a package featuring a couple of very good players.
Friedman discussed the situation on the DMase, Vingan & Daunic show, explaining that the organization feels it has made a significant investment in his development. Friedman noted that assistant general manager Shawn Horcoff has personally worked with Edvinsson throughout his time in the organization and is especially convinced of the player’s value.
Rangers Rule Out Connor Hellebuyck Speculation as Goalie Search Continues
The New York Rangers need help in goal after Igor Shesterkin was ruled out for the season, but Winnipeg Jets star Connor Hellebuyck doesn’t appear to be a realistic option. Elliotte Friedman addressed the speculation on Sportsnet’s Saturday Headlines, saying, “Don’t expect it,” and adding that he doesn’t believe the fit works.
Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (James Carey Lauder-Imagn Images)
The financial commitment is a major obstacle. Hellebuyck carries an $8.5 million annual cap hit through 2031, while Shesterkin earns $11.567 million annually through 2033. Keeping both would mean committing nearly $20 million to two goaltenders, creating a difficult situation once Shesterkin returns.
For now, the Rangers will rely on Dylan Garand, with Joonas Korpisalo expected to miss another four weeks. ESPN’s Emily Kaplan also reported that retired veteran Jonathan Quick could be an option if the Rangers ask him to return.
Flyers Struggling, Rick Tocchet on Hot Seat?
The Philadelphia Flyers are off to a disastrous start, and Kevin Kurz believes their season could quickly become difficult to salvage. Philadelphia has gone winless through its first seven games, scoring just eight goals while allowing 28. The resulting minus-20 goal differential puts the Flyers on pace for only 96 goals over an 84-game season.
There isn’t talk of Rick Tocchet being in trouble, but if things continue to trend downward, this is a coach who has a history of losing a room quickly. Things in Vancouver unraveled after one strong season. It’s still early, but a 0-5-2 start is far from ideal, especially for a team coming off a surprising playoff appearance.
Meanwhile, Detroit captain Dylan Larkin continues to generate trade speculation after Montreal Canadiens fans chanted “We Want Larkin” during Saturday’s matchup between the clubs. Friedman addressed the possibility on the 32 Thoughts podcast, saying a deal remains unlikely but shouldn’t be completely dismissed.
“I always say, ‘never say never,’ until it’s done. I still think it’s unlikely,” Friedman said.
Larkin was asked about the chants. “It was interesting. I never would’ve imagined that in this building in my career. But they’re passionate fans. In my opinion, it’s the best atmosphere in hockey, and they’re knowledgeable, and they love their team, and that’s how I read into it. And after a few seconds, it was just back to focusing on the game.”
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