NHL Trade Talk Weekend Rumors: McDavid’s Remarks, Matthews Plans, Expansion

In today’s NHL weekend rumors report, league expansion talk is heating up, the Toronto Maple Leafs continue to face questions about Auston Matthews, and several teams across the league are already laying the groundwork for a busy offseason. Who is on the hot seat in terms of coaches?

---

Finally, there is a lot of talk about Player Safety and whether the league is getting it right. After two suspect decisions involving Radko Gudas and A.J. Greer, is it time the players talk to the NHL about changes?

Expansion Buzz Builds Around Atlanta, Houston

Expansion chatter is once again picking up steam, with insiders pointing to Atlanta and Houston as the NHL’s top two potential destinations. According to Jeff Marek, those cities are viewed as “A and B” options if the league moves forward with adding new franchises.

While no formal timeline has been announced, one has to wonder how long it will be before the conversation really picks up. Both markets have long been linked to expansion due to their size, corporate backing, and potential for growth in the U.S. television landscape.

Maple Leafs Facing Mounting Questions

The Maple Leafs remain in the spotlight, with uncertainty surrounding Auston Matthews, Anthony Stolarz, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson.

Matthews’ long-term future continues to generate speculation. While Darren Dreger noted the team isn’t currently bracing for a trade demand, the possibility can’t be ruled out—especially given recent precedents around the league. While on First Up, Dreger noted, “I don’t believe that…the Leafs [are] deeply worried that Auston Matthews is, through his agent Judd Moldaver, going to alert the club that alright, you’re on the clock; but…have to allow for the possibility; Quinn Hughes, that’s…what he did.”

What seems clear, as insiders like Chris Johnston have reported, is that Matthews is expected to seek clarity on the organization’s direction before committing long-term.

Meanwhile, there is talk about the status of Anthony Stolarz, who returned to the ice after taking a puck in the neck during the pre-game warmup against the Avalanche. Toronto called up goaltender Dennis Hildeby from the AHL’s Toronto Marlies on an emergency basis. 

Oliver Ekman-Larsson also left Monday’s practice early, according to TSN’s Mark Masters. Myers was paired with Simon Benoit during practice. It’s not yet clear why he left.

Coaching, Contracts, and Uncertainty Elsewhere

Coaching and contract situations are also drawing attention around the NHL. The Columbus Blue Jackets are expected to evaluate head coach Rick Bowness after the season.

The Nashville Predators, meanwhile, are expected to retain head coach Andrew Brunette regardless of front-office changes, signaling stability behind the bench.

Connor McDavid made cryptic remarks about the Oilers’ systems and strategies, while also complimenting Jon Cooper of the Tampa Bay Lightning. What exactly was McDavid hinting at, if anything>

Finally, James Mirtle on the Leaf Report says that Toronto head coach Craig Berube will likely be fired this summer.

With the offseason approaching, uncertainty is everywhere—and the stage is set for a busy summer across the league.

What Happens with the Player Safety Concerns?

This past week included a heavy debate about the NHL Department of Player Safety and how they are assessing important supplementary discipline decisions. Two suspensions were scrutinized, with Radko Gudas getting five games and A.J. Greer getting three games. Both felt light to many fans.

Elliotte Friedman reports that changes aren’t coming. The league maintains its stance that it is making the right calls, going off precedent when deciding the length of suspensions. While McDavid has been critical of the process, Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki says every time a suspension comes out, someone isn’t happy either way. He added that the DoPS has a tough job and that the players have to trust them.

Next: Is Knoblauch’s Nuclear Option Blowing Up His Own Job Security with Oilers?