In another NHL news and rumors update, there are reports that Nico Hischier has begun talking with the New Jersey Devils about a new deal, while in Edmonton, teams are checking in thanks to some decent play by Jesse Puljujarvi in Finland. And, is there any news on Julius Honka out of Dallas?
Devils and Hischier Getting Down to Business
We reported earlier this morning that the New York Islanders have begun discussions with Matthew Barzal about a contract extension. They aren’t the only team getting a jump on things. The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun (subscription required) writes the New Jersey Devils have started negotiations with center Nico Hischier.
LeBrun notes that any talks are just in the initial stages and it’s still early, but it’s also a good sign that the team wants to get this done sooner than later. One thing to think about is that with Hischier locked up long-term, it has to help Taylor Hall’s decision about the long-term success of the team and whether or not to stay put. Hischier wasn’t likely going anywhere but if the Devils can get him done in a timely manner and at a good number, Hall knows the Devils have room to keep working to improve the team.
Related: Is McDavid Prepared to Leave the Oilers?
Oilers and Trade Interest in Jesse Puljujarvi
TSN’s Darren Dreger reports that in the past week, teams have shown some interest in Edmonton Oilers Jesse Puljujarvi. He writes:
“A bit of an update on Jesse Puljujarvi, who we understand is playing well in Finland and that’s caught the attention of at least a few NHL clubs who have expressed interest Puljujarvi in the last week.
Dreger added that there’s been no offers or nothing the Oilers have been interested in pursuing in terms of potential offers but it remains something worth keeping an eye on for Oilers fans. That Puljujarvi is playing well and that teams are noticing is helpful if the ultimate goal is to move him.
Dreger said, “Something could develop in the weeks ahead; if not then Edmonton is willing to stand pat.”
Still with the Oilers, TSN’s Bob McKenzie writes that the Edmonton Oilers are going to ride out the issues on the blue line after losing Adam Larsson to injury for six-to-eight weeks. The Oilers are aware they likely won’t find a top-four shutdown d-man on waivers so they’ll try to find a solution internally.
There were rumors the Oilers might look at Thomas Hickey of the New Islanders but McKenzie says that is not the case based on what he would offer for more than $2 million per season.
Related: NHL Rumors: Islanders, Devils, Jets, More
Teams Calling About Julius Honka
TSN is also reporting that the Dallas Stars are getting calls about defenseman Julius Honka. The restricted free agent remains unsigned but was given permission to seek interest and an opportunity with another team.
“Teams are talking to general manager Jim Nill of the Dallas Stars about a trade. It’s not a question of if he’ll be traded, but when he’ll be traded. And when he does, it’ll probably be for a draft pick. And it could happen in the days, if not weeks ahead as teams start to see which kids or injuries pop up in their own particular situation.”
Related: Ottawa Senators Team News: Zibanejad, Brown, Brannstrom, Tkachuk
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