As the NHL draft begins on Friday, trade activity has intensified this week.
On Tuesday, a wave of transactions unfolded, including the Buffalo Sabres sending Bowen Byram to the Chicago Blackhawks, the St. Louis Blues dealing Jordan Kyrou to the Washington Capitals, the New Jersey Devils transferring Simon Nemec to the Calgary Flames, and the Ottawa Senators acquiring William Eklund from the San Jose Sharks.
Below is a concise overview of the most recent rumors involving prominent NHL players as the draft approaches.
Jason Robertson, LW, Dallas Stars
TSN’s Darren Dreger reports that the Dallas Stars may present their most favorable contract offer to Jason Robertson, the 26‑year‑old left winger. Robertson, a restricted free agent with arbitration rights on July 1 and not yet eligible for unrestricted free agency, has sparked speculation about a potential sign‑and‑trade or an offer‑sheet scenario.
Dylan Larkin, C, Detroit Red Wings
Nearly three weeks after Larkin submitted a trade request to Detroit Red Wings management, trade speculation has persisted. While the Minnesota Wild were initially viewed as his preferred destination, Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos recently indicated that the Dallas Stars have emerged as a leading candidate.
Morgan Rielly, D, Toronto Maple Leafs
Dreger reports that Rielly’s agent has submitted a list to the Toronto Maple Leafs of four Western Conference teams as preferred trade destinations, with flexibility to add more. While the specific clubs are undisclosed, the Anaheim Ducks and San Jose Sharks are identified as potential suitors for the 32‑year‑old defenseman seeking experienced blueline depth.
Elias Pettersson, C, Vancouver Canucks
Rick Dhaliwal of CHEK-TV reported that the St. Louis Blues have shown interest in Elias Pettersson, a 27‑year‑old center whose recent performance has been inconsistent. Although some teams see potential to restore his point‑per‑game production, the Canucks are reluctant to retain any portion of his $11.6 million annual salary to facilitate a trade.
Making Sense Of The Pavel Zacha Rumors
The most surprising rumor surrounding the Boston Bruins this summer has come out in the last 24 hours.
Pavel Zacha, C/LW, Boston Bruins
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic reported that the Boston Bruins are exploring trade offers for Pavel Zacha, a 29‑year‑old center who is one year away from unrestricted free agency. With a $4.75 million cap hit and an eight‑team trade list, the Bruins continue to prioritize re‑signing him but remain open to offers should extension negotiations falter.
Making Sense Of The Pavel Zacha Rumors
The most surprising rumor surrounding the Boston Bruins this summer has come out in the last 24 hours.
Valeri Nichushkin, LW, Colorado Avalanche
On Monday, Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet noted that Valeri Nichushkin could become a cost‑cutting candidate for the Avalanche. The 31‑year‑old left winger has four years remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $6.125 million. Though a potent two‑way forward when healthy, his injury history and off‑ice concerns may complicate a move.