NHL Weekend Rumors: Panarin Problem, Extensions and Trade Talk

The 2025-26 NHL season is already generating plenty of off-ice chatter, as teams continue to work through contract negotiations and explore trade opportunities. There is talk about a stalemate between the Rangers and Artemi Panarin, extension discussions involving Jacob Markstrom, trade talks on Owen Tippett and Nick Robertson, and the Edmonton Oilers being keen on names like Alex Tuch and Adrian Kempe.

Here’s a closer look at the latest rumours as we reach another weekend of NHL action.

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Flyers and Maple Leafs Trade Talk: Owen Tippett and Nick Robertson

The Philadelphia Flyers could at least listen on Owen Tippett, according to David Pagnotta, though nothing imminent is expected. Tippett is the kind of player that can bring high upside, but frustration depending on which version of his game shows up.

Meanwhile, Nick Robertson is in the trade rumor mill again. Talk that GM Brad Treliving has had discussions with other teams is out there and that Robertson is still looking for more opportunity, even if that means going elsewhere.

Oilers Watching Alex Tuch and Adrian Kempe Situations?

Discussions surrounding Alex Tuch are on hold due to Buffalo’s season start, but retaining the winger will come at a significant cost. Some are wondering if he eventually becomes a player who shakes loose ahead of the trade deadline. Pagnotta and Jeff Marek have both commented that the Oilers would be keen to see how this situation unfolds.

The Oilers are also reportedly “lurking in the weeds” on Kempe, who has yet to sign with the Los Angeles Kings. He’d like to stay and the Kings want to keep him. That said, his extension numbers are now around $11 million per season and he could go to market. Elliotte Friedman said on Oilers Now that if you take a look at who’s coming off the free agency board, one has to believe the Kings are gonna realize they need to sign Kempe. “I gotta think the Kings are gonna sign him,” he said.

New York Rangers: Artemi Panarin

While the Rangers aren’t actively looking to trade Artemi Panarin, Pagnotta warns that fringe playoff teams after the Olympics could make serious offers for the star winger. The situation will be one to watch as the season progresses.

Friedman reported that Panarin turned down a short-term extension offer that was structured similarly to the one Anze Kopitar signed in LA. Is ther writing on the wall with Panarin and the Rangers? They aren’t afraid to make big changes and take dramatic swings.

Contract Watch: Jacob Markstrom

Jacob Markstrom’s camp requested a four- to five-year deal, leaving the New Jersey Devils to decide whether to retain him long-term or let him test the market this summer. Three is an appetite by both sides to get this done, but Markstrom is 35 and anything too long is problematic given the age of Jake Allen and the uncertainty surrounding backup Nico Daws.

Other Players and Rumours

Brennan Othmann hasn’t formally requested a trade, but his situation is being monitored in New York.

NHL expansion also continues to generate interest, with potential groups in Atlanta, Houston, and Austin exploring entry into the league. Speculation is that the cost to buy into the NHL now is $2 billion.

Carter Hart signed a PTO with the Vegas Golden Knights and speculation is that it will turn into a two-year deal with the goaltender given a chance to earn a long-term extension.

Next: Carter Hart: A Move That Only the Golden Knights Could Pull Off