Minnesota Wild

NHL Trade Talk Daily News: Golden Knights Sign Saad, Plus Leafs and Habs

NHL Trade Talk Daily News: Brandon Saad is going to the Vegas Golden Knights, plus news on Fleury and Matthews.

by
Old Prof
January 31, 2025

Welcome to today’s NHL Trade Talk Daily News report (January 31). Each day, we’ll bring you key NHL news, which includes trade rumors, injury updates, and other news about the teams involved in the NHL.

In today’s news, we’re awaiting news on Brandon Saad‘s free agency decision. Where will he sign? There are several teams rumored to be in the mix, but it sounds like he’s made his choice and is signing a one-year deal with the Vegas Golden Knights.

We also look at Marc-Andre Fleury‘s triumphant last game (probably) in Montreal. Although the loss didn’t help the Habs, the moment wasn’t lost on fans. They cheered Fleury after the game. The result couldn’t have been more fitting for the Quebec native, who put up his first shutout of the season.

Finally, I’ll look at the Toronto Maple Leafs captain, Auston Matthews, who was also named Team USA’s 4-Nation Faceoff team captain. Congratulations are in order.

Brandon Saad Chooses Vegas Golden Knights

Nick Kypreos writes, “Veteran winger and UFA Brandon Saad could sign with an NHL club as early as today. Multiple teams are pushing hard, including the Edmonton Oilers and Toronto Maple Leafs.” Some are wondering if winning is all that matters because he wilfully left $5 million on the table in St. Louis, or if he’s trying to recoup some of that in whatever deal he signs.

But, after all that speculation, Kevin Weekes is reporting that Saad is finalizing a contract with the Vegas Golden Knights. Elliotte Friedman is reporting that it’s a one-year, $1.5 million pro-rated deal.

Marc-André Fleury: Montreal’s Hometown Hero

Marc-André Fleury was outstanding in the crease last night in what is likely his last game played in Montreal. He shut out the Canadiens 4-0. The 40-year-old netminder reminded us how good he’s been when he stopped everything he faced – 19 shots in total. It was his first shutout of the season, but not his career. Over his 21-season NHL tenure, he’s put up 76 of them.

It was an emotional night for Fleury, and he acknowledged that for the past week or so as the game was looming. Fleury is a native of Sorel, Quebec, only about an hour away. As noted, the moment was not lost on Habs fans, who serenaded him as he reached this milestone on home ice (well, almost home ice).

Fleury’s shutout extended his success in the crease this season. He’s now won five of his last seven games. Fleury’s performance helped the Wild extend their winning streak to three games. He also improved his record to 11-5-1 on the season, with a solid 2.60 GAA over 18 games.

With his 76th career shutout, Fleury tied Martin Brodeur for the most shutouts in NHL history over 21 seasons, surpassing Terry Sawchuk. Fleury’s leadership and skill reminded us that age hasn’t dulled his shine.

Matthews Named Team USA Captain for 4 Nations Face-Off

Auston Matthews has been named captain of Team USA for the 4 Nations Face-Off. The tournament is set to take place from February 12-20 in Montreal and Boston. In his first season as captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Matthews will represent the United States for the first time since joining the NHL in 2016.

Joining Matthews in Team USA’s leadership group are alternate captains Matthew Tkachuk of the Florida Panthers and Charlie McAvoy of the Boston Bruins. Team USA general manager Bill Guerin expressed his excitement: “They all bring leadership skills in different ways, and together represent the drive, desire, and passion we need in not only representing our country but in helping achieve our ultimate goal.”

Matthews has previously played for Team USA at various youth levels. He scored the game-winning gold at the 2015 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. He’s also a key to the Maple Leafs’ success. This season, he’s put up 38 points (20 goals, 18 assists) despite missing 15 games with an injury.

The 4 Nations Face-Off will feature NHL players from the U.S., Canada, Finland, and Sweden, competing in a round-robin format, with the top two teams advancing to the final. Matthews will lead Team USA as they aim to win at this prestigious international event.