The NHL’s off-season is quickly approaching with the Stanley Cup Final ongoing. The NHL Draft is set to begin on June 28, followed by Free Agent Frenzy on July 1. TSN.ca provides the latest rumors and news from around the NHL.
Martin Necas, a 25-year-old forward, is drawing interest from several teams as he approaches restricted free agency with the Carolina Hurricanes. Pierre LeBrun reports that numerous teams have reached out to the Hurricanes regarding a potential trade for Necas. Teams such as Winnipeg, Chicago, Boston, and Montreal are among those inquiring about the forward. There is speculation that a blockbuster trade involving Nikolaj Ehlers of the Winnipeg Jets could be in the works. However, moving Ehlers would be a financial decision for the Jets, who are also looking to extend Kyle Connor.
The Ottawa Senators are exploring their options ahead of the NHL Draft, with team president and general manager Steve Staios considering offers for the No. 7 pick. The Senators are also evaluating their goaltending situation after both Joonas Korpisalo and Anton Forsberg struggled last season. They are reportedly interested in acquiring a new goaltender, with Jacob Markstrom and Linus Ullmark being mentioned as potential targets.
Speculation surrounds Mitch Marner’s future with the Toronto Maple Leafs as he enters the final year of his contract with a $10.9 million cap hit. Marner intends to play out his contract with the Maple Leafs, despite ongoing trade rumors. Negotiations with defenseman Timothy Liljegren are expected to continue into the summer, with the Leafs monitoring free agency before deciding on his contract. The Maple Leafs have $18.83 million in cap space this summer, with several restricted free agents, including Nick Robertson, Noah Gregor, and Connor Dewar.
Overall, the NHL off-season is heating up with trade talks, draft preparations, and free agency decisions on the horizon for many teams across the league. Fans can expect an eventful summer as teams look to make moves to improve their rosters for the upcoming season.