NHL Weekend Rumors: Larkin Hold, Makar Timeline, Hughes Concern and Oilers Big Move

In this weekend’s NHL rumors report, the Detroit Red Wings are struggling to find a match for Dylan Larkin’s asking price, and four teams are in the mix but waiting for the Red Wings to figure out their GM situation. Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche are working against the clock to lock up Cale Makar. The Minnesota Wild continue to navigate uncertainty around Quinn Hughes, and the Edmonton Oilers are positioning themselves for a big move during the 2026-27 season.

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Red Wings Facing Reality on Larkin Trade Talks

The Red Wings remain in a difficult position when it comes to a potential Dylan Larkin trade. Helene St. James reports that the organization is asking for a legitimate first-line center in return, a steep price that teams on Larkin’s preferred trade list have shown little willingness to meet. St. James suggests that Detroit may need to reconsider its stance if it hopes to move forward with a deal.

At the same time, none of that really matters while the Red Wings are without a full-time GM. Shawn Horcoff is filling in, but he lacks the authority to make trades. As such, the four teams reportedly in the mix — Minnesota, Florida, Vegas, and Dallas — are waiting. It is still believed the Wild want to talk trade.

Avalanche Eye Deadline in Makar Negotiations

Contract talks between the Colorado Avalanche and star defenseman Cale Makar appear to be trending in a positive direction, but timing could become a critical factor. According to Elliotte Friedman, the Avalanche remain confident a deal will get done, though the biggest question revolves around term.

The NHL’s contract rules add urgency to the situation. Teams can sign players to eight-year extensions only until September 15. After that, the maximum term drops to seven years. If Colorado hopes to secure Makar long-term under the current structure, they’ll need to finalize an agreement before that deadline. It might not matter given the trend toward shorter-term deals these days. Makar may opt for a four or five-year extension, ensuring he’s young enough to get another big deal with a higher cap ceiling.

All signs point to both sides motivated to complete a deal that keeps one of the league’s elite defensemen in Colorado for the foreseeable future.

Wild Staying Patient in Quinn Hughes Situation

The Minnesota Wild and Quinn Hughes have yet to finalize what many believe will be a massive contract, despite widespread expectations that a deal would already be in place. Friedman has consistently predicted a three-year agreement worth $18 million annually, but acknowledged this week that the lack of progress is beginning to raise eyebrows.

There is no sense of panic from either side, but there are reports starting to surface that this isn’t as much a lock as it once was. Wild GM Bill Guerin confirmed that discussions are ongoing. “I’m not gonna get too far into it, but I have been talking to his camp all along. These things take time, they are big decisions for players and teams, so it’s a process to work through it.”

Friedman noted he won’t view the situation as concerning unless it drags into the regular season.

Oilers Planning Patience for In-Season Upgrade

The Edmonton Oilers are taking a different approach this offseason, choosing not to spend to the cap ceiling during the summer. GM Stan Bowman recently explained that the team intends to hold onto its available cap space, with the goal of making a meaningful addition during the season.

After operating with little to no flexibility in recent years, the Oilers now find themselves in a far more advantageous position. Bowman highlighted how previous cap constraints prevented the team from taking advantage of opportunities, particularly when other clubs were looking to move contracts midseason.

That flexibility is now a priority. Rather than forcing a summer signing, Edmonton plans to wait for the right opportunity—whether that comes via trade or closer to the deadline. Bowman made it clear the team does intend to use that cap space eventually, but only when the move makes sense.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Red Wings, Maple Leafs & Oilers Have Room