The Canadiens remain linked to Bruins center Pavel Zacha, the Penguins need a left-shot defenseman, and the latest on the Oilers. Get the details in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.
CANADIENS INTERESTED IN ZACHA
TVA SPORTS: According to Nicolas Clouthier, one of the worst-kept secrets in the league is that Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes “adores” Pavel Zacha. He pointed out that Hughes was the Boston Bruins center’s former agent.
Boston Bruins center Pavel Zacha (NHL Images).
Cloutier cited “trustworthy sources” within the Canadiens claiming the club is not on Zacha’s list of teams he doesn’t want to be traded to.
The Canadiens need an experienced second-line center. Discussions took place over the summer, including one about Zacha. Cloutier believes follow-up talks are planned when teams decide to sell.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: Cloutier acknowledged the rarity of trades between the Bruins and Canadiens. Nevertheless, it shouldn’t be ruled out.
Zacha would tick a lot of boxes for the Canadiens, but there is no certainty that the Bruins will move him. TSN’s Pierre LeBrun recently reported that they see him as an important part of their plans, adding that it wouldn’t be surprising if he signs a contract extension next summer.
Still, a lot can happen over the course of a season. The Bruins could consider trading Zacha if he shows little interest in an extension.
PENGUINS SEEK A DEFENSEMAN
PITTSBURGH HOCKEY NOW: Dan Kingerski reported last week that the Penguins require a left-shot defenseman. They’ve lost Caleb Jones to a lower-body injury for eight weeks and need a suitable replacement.
Kingerski said sources claimed that general manager Kyle Dubas is “kicking tires” on spare left-shot blueliners. One of them is Erik Gustafsson of the Detroit Red Wings, who is currently with their AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids.
LATEST ON THE OILERS
EDMONTON JOURNAL: David Staples cited NHL insider Frank Seravalli telling Oilers Now host Bob Stauffer that the Oilers are considering multiple player movements. That includes possible trades involving defensemen Troy Stecher and Ty Emberson, and forward Mattias Janmark.
This news comes with Janmark, winger Zach Hyman, and blueliner Alec Regula poised to return from injuries. There is “zero chance” that the Oilers will place Regula on waivers.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: In case you’re wondering, Stecher, Emberson, and Regula are right-hand shots. They won’t be of interest to the Penguins.