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NHL Trade Talk Recap: Blackhawks, Canucks, Oilers, Maple Leafs

NHL Trade Talk Recap Jan. 12: The Oilers and Senators deadline plans, Marner has an odd take on effort, and Elias Pettersson’s Selke play.

by
Old Prof
January 12, 2025

In another NHL Trade Talk Recap (Jan. 12), we focused on teams gearing up for the trade deadline in today’s posts. Some teams might be actively making trade deadline plans (the Oilers and Senators), while there’s pondering what other teams (for example, the Canadiens, Rangers, and the Islanders) might be up to.

Key player stories include Elias Pettersson’s standout defensive play against the Maple Leafs and potential insights about Connor McDavid’s potential re-signing with the Oilers. A detailed review of the Canucks shutout win over the Maple Leafs can be found from Stan Smith. Finally, some NHL head coaches like Tortorella might be annoyed by the drama surrounding a player who isn’t on the team and wish only to focus on meaningful games.

Top NHL Trade Talk Recap Story:

Marner’s Lack of Accountability Sparks Fan Frustration

Following the Toronto Maple Leafs’ shutout loss to the Vancouver Canucks, Mitch Marner’s comment that the team “played well” has frustrated fans. Many feel he’s not fully owning up to his defensive struggles after being on the ice for multiple goals. His vastly different outlook contrasts with his teammates’ and head coach’s more critical tone. Does Marner’s stance raise questions about his accountability and leadership during a tough stretch?

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The Hunt for Connor Bedard’s Perfect Partner

Connor Bedard is showing promise with the Chicago Blackhawks, but his impact could be even greater with the right linemate. Coach Rick Bowness pointed out that, unlike Connor McDavid—who has flourished by playing alongside Leon Draisaitl—Bedard lacks a dynamic partner to elevate his game. Can the Blackhawks find the right partner who could help unlock maximizing superstar potential and accelerate Chicago’s rebuild?

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Could Bo Horvat & Elias Pettersson’s Connection Spark a Canucks-Islanders Trade?

With both the New York Islanders and Vancouver Canucks facing internal challenges, could there be a potential trade between the two teams? Bo Horvat’s close friendship with Elias Pettersson adds interest to the possibility. Could Mathew Barzal replace Pettersson? Is such a trade remotely possible? In theory, it might make sense. But would it work in reality?

Read More Than the Recap Here:

Is McDavid Re-Signing with the Oilers?

Oilers fans were excited to see an Instagram post from Connor McDavid’s wife, Lauren Kyle McDavid, teasing the opening of a high-end cocktail bar in downtown Edmonton. The suggestion is that she’s planting more roots in the city and that might lead to the McDavids feeling more comfortable with signing to stick around when the captain’s contract expires. Is this case of happy wife, happy McDavid? Or, does opening a business not mean much or indicate anything related to McDavid’s future with the team?

Read the Rest of the Recap Here