NHL Weekend Rumors: Marchand Out, Matthews’ Back, Werenski’s Future

In this weekend’s NHL rumors report, the Florida Panthers have some unexpected uncertainty surrounding Brad Marchand after the veteran forward underwent offseason surgery. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs received encouraging news on Auston Matthews while another detail raised questions about his health. Finally, Zach Werenski made his intentions clear regarding his future with the Columbus Blue Jackets. With training camps approaching, several key players are already generating plenty of conversation around the league.

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Brad Marchand’s Surgery Creates Panthers Concern

Brad Marchand revealed this week that he underwent offseason surgery to address lingering lower-body issues believed to involve his hip and a sports hernia. The decision came after the Florida Panthers forward initially hoped to avoid surgery and manage the problem without it. Marchand was dealing with the injury late last season and was eventually shut down after returning from the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Despite the setback, Marchand still produced 27 goals and 54 points in just 52 games during his first full season with Florida. Panthers GM Bill Zito said on July 1 that Marchand’s recovery appeared to be progressing well and surgery was not expected. That obviously changed. With training camp roughly a month away, uncertainty remains about whether Marchand will be ready for opening night.

Marchand’s injury situation could create an additional headache for Florida beyond simply replacing his production. The Panthers are projected to have only about $34,000 in salary-cap space entering the season. If Marchand misses time but does not qualify for long-term injured reserve, Florida will have to figure out its roster situation.

For Marchand to qualify for LTIR, he would need to miss at least 10 games and 24 days. That means the Panthers may have to wait and see how his recovery progresses before making any bigger decisions. Marchand is entering the second season of the six-year, $31.5 million extension he signed with Florida in June 2025.

Matthews Gets Good News, But Back Issue Raises Questions

Auston Matthews appears to be progressing well in his recovery from offseason knee surgery, with his sports chiropractor Shawn Robek describing the Toronto Maple Leafs captain as energetic and optimistic heading into the 2026-27 season. Matthews is still expected to be ready for training camp, and there are currently no reported delays to his offseason program.

However, Robek’s comments about Matthews’ back caught some attention. While discussing the work being done this summer, Robek noted that the back is not currently a focus. That prompted speculation that it had been an issue for Matthews before. It could potentially help explain the dramatic decline in his production, from 69 goals to 33 and from 78 points to 53 over the past two seasons. Still, the important takeaway is that Matthews is feeling good now, and his knee rehabilitation appears to be on track.

Zach Werenski Makes His Columbus Preference Clear

Zach Werenski provided perhaps the most significant bit of reassurance this week for Columbus Blue Jackets fans, making it clear that he would prefer to remain with the organization long term. After a summer filled with trade speculation, including reports that a potential deal involving the Dallas Stars had gotten serious, Werenski said his priority is winning in Columbus.

“Ideally, I’m here for the long term,” Werenski said while speaking with reporters at Nationwide Arena. He added that he wants to win in Columbus and suggested Thursday would be the only time he intends to address the trade rumors publicly. His comments should significantly reduce speculation about his future, although questions will remain until an extension is officially signed.

Werenski also offered some optimism regarding teammate Adam Fantilli’s contract situation, saying he expects the young forward to remain with the Blue Jackets as well.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Oilers, Panthers, McDavid & Matthews Together?