NHL Rumors: Matthews Message, MacKinnon and Domi Injury, Oilers Waiting – The Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the focus shifts across several major storylines involving the Toronto Maple Leafs’ biggest star, along with an unexpected injury setback in their forward group. Meanwhile, Nathan MacKinnon might be questionable as the Western Conference Final slips away from the Colorado Avalanche. There is an Edmonton Oilers coaching update, and a growing front-office rumor out of Nashville.

Matthews’ Future Talk Keeps Maple Leafs Calm

According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, there has still been no in-person meeting between Auston Matthews and the Toronto Maple Leafs, but that doesn’t mean communication has stalled. Friedman explained on his 32 Thoughts podcast that the two sides have been in contact, including a recent Zoom meeting involving Matthews, GM John Chayka, and Mats Sundin.

The meeting, described as the first in-depth conversation between both sides, was reportedly positive. Matthews’ message was clear: his priority remains winning in Toronto. Friedman added that the organization is operating under the belief that its superstar is “bought in” and staying put long-term.

While no extension or formal commitment was discussed, and a trade is still technically possible, it is not currently on anyone’s radar.

Max Domi Setback Creates Early Roster Concern

The Maple Leafs received another blow with news that Max Domi will likely miss the start of the 2026-27 season due to complications from offseason surgery. The team confirmed that Domi underwent a procedure to address an injury he played through during the previous campaign, but unexpected complications have extended his recovery timeline.

Domi is now out indefinitely and will be re-evaluated when training camp opens in September. The 31-year-old forward appeared in 80 games last season, recording 12 goals and 36 points while playing primarily in a bottom-six role.

The loss creates an early hole in the Maple Leafs’ forward group and increases pressure on management, who is already dealing with a long list of to-dos.

Oilers May Have to Wait on Cassidy

Chris Johnston reports: “I think the Oilers are going to have to wait and see with Bruce Cassidy; if not, you’re choosing between [Craig] Berube, [Peter] Laviolette, maybe there’s a mystery box but I don’t really see it.

There are also questions about whether the narrative around Cassidy is shifting. Is the recent success by the Golden Knights the result of improved play under John Tortorella? Or, did this all happen because Bruce Cassidy was let go?

Golden Knights Push Avalanche to the Brink

Speaking of the Vegas Golden Knights, they are now one win away from the Stanley Cup Final after a dramatic 5-3 comeback over the Colorado Avalanche in Game 3 of the Western Conference Final. Despite falling behind 3-0 in the first period, Vegas responded with five unanswered goals to take a commanding 3-0 series lead.

Colorado head coach Jared Bednar summed up the performance bluntly, saying “Everything” went wrong.

For Colorado, the situation worsened with an injury scare to Nathan MacKinnon, who blocked a shot and appeared limited afterward. Though he returned briefly, his effectiveness was limited. His status for Game 4 is unclear. “You might have to kill him to get him off the ice,” Colorado goalie Scott Wedgewood said. “Just kind of the person he is, the competitor he is. He ⁠obviously proves that every time he’s on the ice. He wants to win more than anybody. Just another example.”

Predators GM Rumor Quickly Shut Down

A report suggesting the Nashville Predators were preparing to hire Colorado executive Chris MacFarland as their next general manager has been firmly dismissed by insiders. Friedman clarified that no permission has been granted for discussions, and no agreement is in place.

The speculation had suggested Nashville was closing in on a deal, but Friedman stressed that such claims are “way, way, way premature.” At this stage, there is no indication that talks have advanced beyond informal chatter.