NHL Rumors: New Winger for Matthews, Canadiens Trade, and Sportsnet Loses Big Name – The Hockey Writers –

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, Auston Matthews and Jack Roslovic could be an interesting pairing for the Toronto Maple Leafs this season. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens remain patient as trade speculation swirls. Finally, a major broadcasting shakeup sees Sportsnet part ways with long-time analyst Kelly Hrudey.

Are Matthews and Roslovic a Pair to Watch in Toronto?

There might be some early clues this summer that Matthews and Roslovic could be a thing in Toronto this coming season. The Maple Leafs captain is playing a big role behind the scenes, getting Roslovic acquainted with the city and the former Edmonton Oilers already said he has leaned on Matthews heavily since signing his two-year, $8 million deal.

Roslovic noted that Matthews has been instrumental in showing him around, helping with living arrangements, and connecting him with teammates and staff. The two share a history, and that familiarity appears to be a key reason Roslovic is excited about the opportunity in Toronto. “It’s really fun when you can come back & play with someone you once had a lot of success with..”

The big question now is whether that off-ice chemistry translates into production. Roslovic recorded 21 goals and 36 points in 68 games last season and has totaled 123 goals and 296 points over his career. If he clicks with Matthews, the Leafs could be adding more than just depth—they could be unlocking a duo that could be a big part of their success.

Canadiens Taking Patient Approach to Trade Market

Trade speculation continues to surround the Montreal Canadiens, but don’t expect general manager Kent Hughes to rush into anything. According to reports and commentary from Stu Cowan, the Canadiens are still expected to make a move—but the timing remains uncertain.

It sounds like the Canadiens were hoping to have a deal done by now but Hughes remains patient. The Canadiens’ rebuild has been defined by great contracts and solid bets and that doesn’t happen by rushing into bigger trades. “It could happen at any time, but I don’t see us going into December or something like that without a trade being made,” said Cowan.

Players like Arber Xhekaj and Zachary Bolduc remain unsigned, and their situations could factor into potential trades. A sign-and-trade scenario involving Xhekaj has even been floated as a possibility. The Canadiens are also trying to Michael Hage locked up.

Sportsnet Parts Ways With Kelly Hrudey

In a surprising development, Sportsnet has chosen not to renew the contract of long-time Hockey Night in Canada analyst Kelly Hrudey, ending a remarkable 28-year run with the network. He confirmed the news in a video post on Wednesday.

Hrudey expressed gratitude for his decades in broadcasting as the former NHL goaltender enjoyed a 15-season playing career, suiting up for the New York Islanders, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks before he got into the media game.

At Sportsnet, Hrudey became a staple figure and his departure leaves a significant void in the network’s coverage and raises questions about potential further changes. Hrudey made it clear this is not a retirement. However, what’s next remains unclear. Hrudey hinted at an “act three” but did not provide specifics.

Hrudey revealed that this decision by Sportsnet had been in the works for some time. Still, the announcement caught many fans off guard, with some questioning the network’s decision to move on and many suggesting this was a big mistake.