In today’s NHL Rumors Rundown, the Edmonton Oilers are eyeing defensive upgrades, and two names have been linked to them as possible targets. That said, there’s some work that needs to be done on the salary cap side first. Meanwhile, Nashville Predators star Steven Stamkos is reportedly open to waiving his no-move clause. The Toronto Maple Leafs are signaling a soft sell, and the Vancouver Canucks have confirmed they’ve received an offer for a key veteran blueliner.
Things are picking up. Will there be any moves on Friday, as recent game results make it clear to teams whether they are buyers or sellers?
The Oilers’ blue line appears to be their primary focus ahead of the deadline. Frank Seravalli appeared on Sports On Prime and reported that Ekman-Larsson and Justin Faulk are two names the Oilers are closely monitoring. Meanwhile, on 32 Thoughts, insider Elliotte Friedman said he believes the rumored connection between Edmonton and Oliver Ekman-Larsson “is real.”
Related: NHL Rumors: Myers to Red Wings, Maple Leafs Decision, Jarry Trade
Both defenders bring puck-moving ability and strong skating, and can play on the right side. Ekman-Larsson is the less expensive of the two options and requires less maneuvering with the salary cap to make it work. However, cap space remains a major hurdle. Faulk carries a $6.5 million hit, while Ekman-Larsson’s $3.5 million salary would also require money going out. Any deal would likely hinge on salary retention and roster juggling before Edmonton can make a serious push.
Stamkos Open to Waiving NMC
Trade dominoes could also fall in Nashville. According to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, Stamkos is open to waiving his full no-movement clause under the right circumstances. The veteran forward has reportedly submitted a short list of preferred destinations which include the Tampa Bay Lightning, Dallas Stars, and Minnesota Wild.
LeBrun explained:
“Steven Stamkos has a full no-move clause; he controls the state here, and he’s not asking out. He’s happy in Nashville, but in preparation for if Predators management goes to him before next Friday and says we’ve got some offers on the table, I’m told Stamkos and his camp have prepared themselves by coming up with a list of some preferred destinations. I’m told that list is topped by Tampa Bay, then Dallas, then Minnesota. To a certain degree New Jersey, but certainly it’s Lightning, Stars, and Wild. Keep in mind that I think it’s more likely this is a summer discussion—a summer trade—but just brace yourselves in case this possibility happens.”
Stamkos is still producing at a high level with 29 goals and 45 points this season. He signed a four-year, $48 million deal in 2024, and his contract makes an in-season move complicated. Salary retention would almost certainly be required.
Maple Leafs Preparing Soft Sell
After a flat showing out of the Olympic break, the Maple Leafs appear poised to sell more than they buy. Multiple league sources indicate GM Brad Treliving is aggressively listening on expiring contracts, aiming for a soft cell rather than a full rebuild.
Winger Bobby McMann is generating the strongest buzz, and while there’s been talk about a contract extension, is expected to be moved. The Oilers were considered a leading contender, but that may no longer be the case.
Goaltending could also be in play. While speculation has centered on Anthony Stolarz, insiders suggest Joseph Woll may be the more realistic trade chip as he could fetch a better return.
Canucks Working on Myers Offer
Out west, the Canucks confirmed they have received an offer to veteran defenseman Tyler Myers. Speaking on the 100% Hockey Podcast, president Jim Rutherford said, “We do have an offer for him. We’re working through that process now, and we’ll see where it goes.”
With Vancouver weighing multiple options for several players, the Myers’ situation is one to watch closely. It’s unclear if he’s avoiding Detroit as a destination or just wants to see if other teams get into the mix first. Rutherford’s comments seem to hint the Canucks are trying to stir up more action.
