NHL Weekend Rumors: Oilers, Canucks, Blues, Predators, Goalie Moves & Sellers

A lot is going on in the NHL rumor mill this week, with contenders searching for upgrades, struggling teams starting to sell, and several stars finding their names unexpectedly in the mix.

From the Vancouver Canucks and Nashville Predators emerging as active sellers to the Edmonton Oilers being wrapped up in goaltending drama, front offices across the league are laying the groundwork for what could become a chaotic stretch leading into the holidays.

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Canucks Among Active Sellers

The Vancouver Canucks may have been the most talked-about team over the past week. Trade chatter is everywhere, with multiple insiders identifying them as one of the more active “seller’s market” teams. They have made veterans and UFAs available, but aren’t rushing into deals, as per a report by Elliotte Friedman on Saturday night.

The big name on the board is Kiefer Sherwood, and previous speculation that a trade might be close has turned out to be inaccurate. He is likely to be moved, but the Canucks aren’t hurrying a deal. The Boston Bruins have reportedly kicked tires on Sherwood and Conor Garland. While Garland remains linked to rumors, his name hasn’t gained real traction, and his recent absence from the lineup was injury-related.

Several Teams are Also Selling

David Pagnotta lists Vancouver, St. Louis, Nashville, and possibly Calgary among clubs gauging the value of their players and beginning to sell off some pieces.

Elliotte Friedman notes the Canucks prefer young NHL-ready players over picks — but they are listening to everything. Darren Dreger adds that Vancouver is still searching for a centerman, and several players could be in play, including Evander Kane, Teddy Blueger, and potentially Tyler Myers.

Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames signed GM Craig Conroy to an extension, and he quickly settled the drama around the organization after Don Maloney said the team wasn’t moving pieces in a sell-off. Conroy understands the market and said that they would be looking at all options to improve the team long-term.

Predators’ Turmoil Sparks Rumors Around Stars, Veterans, and Coaching

The Nashville Predators might be the most fascinating team to watch. According to Frank Seravalli, the environment around the organization is “the most toxic in the NHL,” with frustration widespread from top to bottom. That friction has led to speculation about major moves.

Pagnotta reports teams have begun asking about Roman Josi and Filip Forsberg — though such blockbuster talks would be summer business at the earliest. Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, both enjoying Nashville but reportedly open to joining contenders, have also drawn interest.

Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on head coach Andrew Brunette, with Seravalli noting Barry Trotz’s public support may be wavering as losses stack up.

Jeff Marek writes, “A wrinkle with any trade of any high-end Predators player to keep in mind – Tennessee is a no-tax state and as such asking a player to waive a no-trade clause to go to a taxed state is asking that player to accept a pay cut and perhaps a substantial one…”

Oilers’ Goalie Trade Squashed… For Now

No team has been tied to more goaltending rumors than the Edmonton Oilers, and while the noise quieted a little after a shutout by Stuart Skinner, the list of names linked to the Oilers keeps growing.

Friedman reiterated that Stuart Skinner has not asked for a trade, but organizationally, the Oilers are evaluating whether it’s time for a change in the crease. It has to be an upgrade, not a lateral move, but Chris Johnston believes Edmonton is “considering everything.”

Names like Tristan Jarry, Jordan Binnington, Laurent Brossoit, and even Buffalo’s goalie surplus are on their radar. Friedman suggests Brossoit is a name to watch, noting Chicago could be asked to retain salary if talks progress. With pressure mounting and the team searching for stability, Edmonton’s goalie story isn’t going away anytime soon.

Blues Open to Moving on From High-Profile Names

St. Louis is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing sellers. Johnston reports the Blues could undertake a “hard reset” in the coming months, with multiple players emerging as trade candidates.

As mentioned earlier, Jordan Binnington’s future is being evaluated. There is also talk about Justin Faulk being moved, and St. Louis is open to discussions that were once considered off-limits.

Next: Waiver Claim Paying Off as Former Oiler Shines for Maple Leafs