In today’s NHL rundown, we start off with Marc-Andre Fleury and the likelihood that he returns to the NHL. Next, we head to the Minnesota Wild and catch up on some of the centres they have been looking at. Finally, the trade cost for Justin Faulk and Evander Kane is known and might be surprising.
Fleury Return to NHL Unlikely
Over the course of the season, Fleury’s name has popped up quite a bit for a retired goalie. He started the season off by playing a preseason game for the Pittsburgh Penguins, has been rumoured to make a potential comeback, and now there are reports that there are quite a few teams calling.
Adding fuel to the fire, Fleury made an appearance at practice with the Minnesota Wild.
Despite the on-ice fun, him being around the team for a ceremonial puck drop this week led to a ton of speculation, but earlier in the week, Michael Russo and Joe Smith reported that Fleury would not be looking to return to the league. (from Wild insider: Could we see Marc-André Fleury unretire? Plus trade rumblings, TV tweaks, The Athletic, Jan. 26, 2025)
When asked about a potential return, Fleury stated, “Probably not…a couple teams asked. But I just said, ‘No.’ It’s tough for some reasons.”
Wild Targeting Centres in Trade Market
After acquiring Quinn Hughes, without the guarantee of an extension, nobody is surprised to hear that the Wild are trying to improve more and go for the Stanley Cup. Every time a name pops up as a potential trade chip, the Wild seem to be in.
Related: Panarin to Jets, Kadri Ready, McMann & Matthews Leaving Maple Leafs?
They have one clear focus, though, and seem to be focusing more on acquiring a centre.
Some of the names they have been linked to include Vincent Trocheck as the New York Rangers enter their rebuild, Charlie Coyle if the Columbus Blue Jackets find themselves feeling out of the race, or even Brayden Schenn if they look to deal with the St. Louis Blues.
There are plenty of options out there, and it appears that they are willing to get creative. With Jesper Wallstadt reportedly available in a big deal. Looking deeper into their prospect pool, they still have high-rated players like Charlie Stramel, Carson Lambos, and Danila Yurov, plus 2027 draft picks and roster pieces they are willing to move.
At this point, it appears that the Wild have the ability to acquire anybody they zone in on if they are available. They certainly have the assets.
Trade Cost for Justin Faulk & Evander Kane Revealed
There is usually a ballpark of what a player is going to cost when it comes to deadline trades, but there are always people who value certain players more than others.
The Vancouver Canucks are looking to move on from Kane, which is no surprise considering how their season has gone. Elliotte Friedman reported that the Canucks are looking for a third-round pick with some salary retained. Of course, a certain offer of similar value, including a prospect, could come in, but that is the value they are looking for.
The Los Angeles Kings and Dallas Stars have been rumoured to be interested, though David Pagnotta reported there are Eastern Conference teams involved.
As for Faulk, the Blues are still looking to move him, and are looking for a return similar to what the Calgary Flames received for Rasmus Andersson. While Faulk has been a great piece for the Blues throughout his long tenure, some may be hesitant to say they have the same value. It is a good starting point, though.
