Edmonton Oilers

NHL Trade Talk Recap: Maple Leafs Will Talk to Tanev, News on Two Oilers Stars

The Maple Leafs will look to veteran defenceman when deciding how to move forward, and the Oilers receive positive news regarding their stars

by
Ethan Braund
March 27, 2026

A familiar storyline is emerging around the Toronto Maple Leafs, who appear to be considering a changing of the guard while seeking the thoughts of a veteran voice. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers received encouraging updates on both of their stars on Thursday, with positive injury news and trade speculation from the previous day proving to be overblown.

The Maple Leafs are entering a time of change this offseason, and according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, they could ask Chris Tanev for his thoughts. Meanwhile, there are conflicting reports on Leon Draisaitl’s injury, but recent news has pointed to optimism about his return timetable. Another news update from the Oilers comes from an analyst downplaying the idea that Connor McDavid is asking for a trade this summer.

Leafs Look to Tanev, When Looking to Next Year

With the Leafs officially looking towards next season, nine consecutive years of playoff hockey will come to an end. Elliotte Friedman has said we can expect next year’s team to look very different, with change on the horizon.

One player who is likely to remain on the team is defenseman Chris Tanev, whom the Leafs have really missed this season. Tanev was officially shut down for the season at the start of March. Playing only 11 games this season, the team suffered without his steady play and his presence in the room. A lot of this season will come down to the player exit meeting, said Friedman.

In many situations, it is unclear how many players feel about their roles and future. Once those conversations happen, the real work begins on what to do next. With many players surely looking for a change of scenery, and staff parting ways. Tanev is an important part of this team, and his veteran presence has earned him the right to decide his future with the hockey club.

‘This is Going to Be an Offseason of Change in Toronto’, Leafs Want D-Man’s Input

Optimism For Leon Draisaitl’s Return

As always, there have been many conflicting reports hitting the airwaves regarding Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl. When he was first injured, the team immediately reported that he would miss the remainder of the regular season.

Then, in an interview with Sky Sports, Leon Draisaitl said he hopes the team goes far enough for him to return and contribute. It wasn’t the kind of comment Oilers fans across Canada wanted to hear regarding one of their biggest stars. However, reports since that interview have made it clear there’s little concern about him missing any part of the playoffs.

The latest update from Jason Gregor offered even more optimism—suggesting Draisaitl may not only be ready for Game 1, but could also get a tune-up game before the regular season ends.

The 30-year-old had already racked up 97 points (35 goals, 62 assists) in just 65 games before the injury. Getting the superstar center back into game action ahead of the playoffs would be an ideal scenario for the Oilers. If he manages to return for a game or two, there’s even a chance—given his pace—that he could reach the 100-point mark. That would represent his fifth consecutive season hitting the milestone and the seventh time in his NHL career.

Optimism Around When Leon Draisaitl Could Return from Injury?

Cooling the Jets on McDavid Trade Talk

Connor McDavid’s time in Edmonton may not be nearing an end—at least not according to Lyle Richardson of Spector’s Hockey. Rumours surrounding the Oilers captain surfaced when it was suggested he could ask for a trade if frustrations continued. His shorter-term contract situation and recent media comments led people to make a few assumptions.

That speculation has led some to believe McDavid could look to leave Edmonton if the team fails to win the elusive Stanley Cup. While Richardson acknowledged that a trade request this summer isn’t impossible, he emphasized that it appears unlikely. Instead, McDavid is expected to evaluate the team’s offseason moves and see how they perform next season before making any decisions about his future.

The 29-year-old is entering the final year of his current eight-year, $100 million contract and will begin a two-year, $25 million extension in 2026–27. All signs suggest he would prefer to remain with the Oilers, but much could depend on the direction the organization takes.

For now, the biggest takeaway for Oilers fans is that no immediate decision is looming. There’s still plenty of time for things to unfold—and in the NHL, as the saying goes, winning a Stanley Cup can change everything.

Analyst Downplays Buzz Around Connor McDavid Summer Trade Request