NHL Rumors: Makar Out, Senators Goalies, and Gretzky’s Cryptic McDavid Joke

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the goalie market is shaping up to be one of the key storylines heading into the offseason, with the Ottawa Senators reportedly doing their homework on several potential options. Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche revealed that Cale Makar is out for Game 2. What’s going on there? Alex Ovechkin’s future in the NHL got a serious update, and Wayne Gretzky jokes about the future of Connor McDavid in Edmonton.

Senators Looking at Different Goalie Options

According to Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun, the Senators have been linked to pending unrestricted free agents such as Stuart Skinner of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Connor Ingram of the Edmonton Oilers. Both netminders could hit the open market on July 1, though their paths may diverge depending on role expectations.

Garrioch writes:

“The Senators have to make sure they get this right. The concern with Ullmark has always been his durability and he was part of a tandem in Boston with Jeremy Swayman. This is an area the club has to get right because strong goaltending is necessary if the Senators are to make it to the playoffs for a third straight spring.”

source – ‘Who can back up Linus Ullmark? Breaking down the Senators’ goalie options’- Bruce Garrioch – Ottawa Sun – 05/19/2026

Skinner is believed to prefer a clear starting opportunity, while Ingram may be a more realistic fit in a backup role. Ottawa is also considering internal depth options like Leevi Merilainen from AHL Belleville. Other names on the radar include Frederik Andersen of the Carolina Hurricanes, though his playoff performance could drive up his price, and Jesper Wallstedt of the Minnesota Wild, who would likely cost significant assets via trade.

Avalanche Down Makar Again as Injury Concern Grows

The Colorado Avalanche are once again without their top defenseman as Cale Makar remains sidelined for Game 2 of their series against the Vegas Golden Knights. Makar also missed Game 1, where Colorado struggled defensively and fell behind in the series. Observers noted that Makar briefly skated and appeared to test his shoulder but ultimately it was ruled he was unable to go tonight.

While there is clear urgency given the Avalanche’s early deficit, the situation is being handled cautiously. Makar is pushing to return, but the team medical staff are prioritizing long-term health and risking going down 2-0 in the series.

Capitals and Ovechkin Eye Potential One-Year Extension

There is growing belief that Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin could return on a one-year deal for the 2026–27 season, according to Barry Svrluga of The Athletic. He writes:

“Let’s be clear: No one is talking about a two-year deal. This would be for 2026-27 — and Ovechkin would have to deal with the inevitable tributes from every other franchise along the way.”

source – ‘Why Alex Ovechkin might actually return for one more season (and why he might not)’ – Barry Svrluga – The Athletic – 05/22/2026

Team owner Ted Leonsis has also indicated that Ovechkin has remained engaged in organizational discussions, including asking about how the team plans to compete next season. Some of the talk has focused on trades, the NHL draft, and roster construction.

Gretzky Weighs in on McDavid Future Talk

Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky recently added his voice to ongoing speculation about Connor McDavid’s future with the Edmonton Oilers during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. Gretzky praised McDavid’s connection to Edmonton, suggesting the superstar genuinely enjoys playing in the market and wants to win there before winning anywhere else.

However, Gretzky seemed to leave the door open to the possibility that McDavid might feel the need to see what’s out there if things don’t go well this next season. He joked that he didn’t want to say too much about McDavid’s future. “I kind of like my statue in Edmonton, I don’t want to see it burned down,” he said. In other words, he didn’t want to say out loud what everyone is thinking.