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NHL Trade Talk Recap: Oilers, Senators, Leafs, Canucks, Canadiens

NHL Trade Talk Recap Dec. 22: Oilers win big, Senators growing stronger, Canucks internal issues, Habs exciting their fans, Rempe suspended

by
Old Prof
December 22, 2024

In another NHL Trade Talk Recap (Dec. 22), the Edmonton Oilers are riding a red-hot streak, looking to maintain momentum as they prepare to reward Ty Emberson with a new contract, despite missing Ryan Nugent-Hopkins in their win over the Senators. Meanwhile, Linus Ullmark’s injury update leaves the Ottawa Senators in a tough spot as they continue their climb into playoff contention. The Senators are led by a surging roster that’s suddenly looking like the real deal.

Craig Berube’s concerning comments about Auston Matthews’ injury timeline should raise alarms for the Maple Leafs, especially after their disappointing 6-3 loss to the Islanders. On the West Coast, Elias Pettersson pushed back against media rumors of a rift with J.T. Miller, as the Vancouver Canucks continue to wrestle with ongoing team drama.

The Montréal Canadiens are capturing attention with Patrik Laine’s historic power-play streak and newfound belief in their locker room. Elsewhere, Matt Rempe’s eight-game suspension for a dangerous hit on Miro Heiskanen and Foligno’s jab at the Sabres are a part of NHL-wide headlines as fans anticipate how these stories will play out.

Top NHL Trade Talk Recap Story

Tension Between Pettersson and Miller: Both Players Address the Rumors

Rumors of discord between Pettersson and Miller have resurfaced, threatening the Canucks’ chemistry and raising questions about the team’s ability to overcome internal challenges. Can the Canucks turn this star-player rift into an opportunity for growth, or will it derail their season?

Both Pettersson and Miller were asked about their rumored issues and both refused to admit there was a problem. Each said the media was making stuff up and creating a story that didn’t exist.

Uncertainty Looms: Auston Matthews’ Injury Timeline Raises Questions

The Toronto Maple Leafs face growing uncertainty about Auston Matthews’ recovery after his injury was re-aggravated, with head coach Berube’s comments suggesting a more complicated situation than previously thought. Can the Maple Leafs stay competitive without their star forward, or will Matthews’ prolonged absence jeopardize their season?

Read About Matthews Injury Here:

Oilers Surge into the Break with Dominant Win Over Senators

In our third recap, the Oilers capped off their pre-holiday schedule with an impressive 3-1 victory over Ottawa. In the game, they showed their depth and strong defense as they solidified their status as contenders. Are the Oilers finally becoming the complete team they need to be for a deep playoff run?

Read How the Oilers Broke the Senators Winning Streak:

Canadiens’ Resurgence: Are They Finally Turning the Corner?

With Patrik Laine sparking the offense, Samuel Montembeault standing tall in net, and veteran leadership steadying the ship, the Canadiens have ignited excitement among fans. They are now riding their first three-game winning streak of the season. Is this resurgence a flash in the pan, or are the Canadiens building the foundation for a legitimate playoff push?

Read About the Canadiens Here: