NHL Rumors Heating Up as Draft and Free Agency Loom
As the NHL draft approaches and free agency quickly follows, several significant player names are making headlines. Trade talks involving key players such as Rasmus Andersson and Thatcher Demko are intensifying, while the situation surrounding Evander Kane remains unresolved. The Edmonton Oilers are also in discussions concerning a potential deal with Evan Bouchard.
Rasmus Andersson Trade Talks Intensify
It appears likely that defenseman Rasmus Andersson has played his final game with the Calgary Flames. Discussions are escalating concerning a trade involving the 27-year-old right-shot defenseman. He is currently in the final year of his $4.55 million contract and has a limited no-trade clause. Teams reportedly interested include the Blue Jackets, Hurricanes, and Senators.
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Eric Francis from Sportsnet reported that the extension talks between the Flames and Andersson completely broke down. The asking price of Andersson was too high for Calgary during their retooling phase.
Demko Extension Progress
Contract discussions between the Canucks and goaltender Thatcher Demko have reportedly advanced positively, according to insiders Rick Dhaliwal and Darren Dreger. A multi-year agreement is more probable than a trade. Demko, 29, has one year remaining on his contract with a $5 million cap hit and lacks trade protection. Some teams, like the Oilers, were rumored to be looking for a goaltending upgrade.
Kane LTIR Probe Still Pending
The NHL’s investigation into the Edmonton Oilers’ use of LTIR relief concerning Evander Kane is still unresolved. Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly of the NHL confirmed that the probe remains pending. No additional information has been sought from the Oilers since the initial inquiry in June. Kane was later traded to the Vancouver Canucks. However, this trade won’t affect the ongoing investigation.
Bouchard Extension Possible
Beyond the Kane trade and the Connor McDavid decision, the Oilers are discussing a contract extension with defenseman Evan Bouchard. Rumors suggest the possibility of a four-year deal. With Bouchard’s RFA status and the potential for an offer sheet after July 1, the Oilers are aiming to secure him early. They also want to ensure his cap hit fits their financial plans.
“I think all options are on the table as far as different types of contracts, but I believe what may end up making the most sense is something around the four-year range.”
—Pierre LeBrun, The Athletic
The league is actively discussing an expansion of the regular season from 82 to 84 games, set to begin in 2026-27, in conjunction with reducing the number of preseason games. This move would align with the increasing trend of longer seasons across major North American sports leagues. For example, the NFL increased to a 17-game season in 2021 (NFL.com).
Outlook
These developments suggest a busy period for the NHL with key player movements and contract negotiations shaping team rosters for the upcoming season. The outcomes of these discussions will significantly impact the competitive landscape.