Chicago Blackhawks
NHL Weekend Rumors: Maple Leafs Reunion, Larkin and Red Wings GM Plan, Bedard Deal…
Get the latest NHL weekend rumors, including Toronto’s cryptic post and Chicago’s trade that helped get Connor Bedard signed.
In this weekend’s rumors report, the Toronto Maple Leafs may have accidentally stirred up free agency buzz with a cryptic social media post, the Minnesota Wild are feeling the ripple effects of betting big on Dylan Larkin, the Chicago Blackhawks may have secured Connor Bedard thanks to a key trade, and the Dallas Stars could be heading toward a major showdown with Jason Robertson.
Maple Leafs Spark Speculation with Mysterious JVR Post
The Toronto Maple Leafs raised eyebrows over the weekend after posting a highlight video of former forward James van Riemsdyk. The veteran winger remains unsigned, and the timing of the post led some fans to wonder if Toronto was hinting at a reunion. Van Riemsdyk, 37, is still capable of contributing in a depth role, having scored 15 goals last season.
However, this is nothing more than nostalgia content. They also made videos for Tyler Bozak and Justin Holl. Expect them to continue.
The idea is interesting. Toronto could use a net-front presence and veteran depth scoring, particularly on a short-term or PTO deal.
Wild’s Larkin Gamble Leaves Them Exposed
The Minnesota Wild may have overplayed their hand this offseason by prioritizing a trade for Dylan Larkin above all else. With Larkin reportedly open to joining Minnesota, GM Bill Guerin shifted focus entirely to landing the Red Wings captain—passing on other viable options in the process.
That decision could now backfire. The Wild stepped away from pursuing Vincent Trocheck, who ultimately landed in Utah, and also missed out on other targets like Anders Lee. With Steve Yzerman stepping down in Detroit, any potential Larkin deal is now in limbo.
Meanwhile, in Detoit, the search for a new GM will be taking place if not already underway. There will be several candidates, but Brendan Shanahan‘s name has come up. Elliotte Friedman suggested the former Maple Leafs President would be interested in the opening.
Blackhawks’ Byram Move Helped Lock in Bedard
The Chicago Blackhawks’ decision to acquire Bowen Byram may have had a much larger impact than initially thought. Shortly after the trade, the team signed Connor Bedard to a five-year extension, and the connection between the two moves is hard to ignore.
Bedard and Byram are close, practicing together in the offseason and both represented Canada internationally. Reports suggest Bedard was thrilled with the acquisition, even reaching out to Byram immediately after the deal.
Stars, Robertson Heading Toward Potential Showdown
The situation between the Dallas Stars and Jason Robertson continues to intensify, with nothing imminent, either in an extension or a trade. However, Robertson’s arbitration hearing is set for July 25, so that’s the deadline date to keep an eye on. Robertson is reportedly holding firm on his asking price. New contracts, like Leo Carlsson‘s, give Robertson reason not to bend. Meanwhile, the Stars remain hesitant.
If a deal isn’t reached soon, trade speculation could ramp up. Teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins are rumored to have interest, and there’s a sense that something has to give. Whether it’s a blockbuster extension or a surprising trade, this situation is one to watch closely in the coming days.
Next: Could Jack Roslovic Unlock a Better Version of Auston Matthews?
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