NHL Rumors: Nurse, Rielly, Hellebuyck, Nikishin, Robertson All in Play

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Edmonton Oilers and Toronto Maple Leafs continue working through complex blue-line trade scenarios, specifically involving Darnell Nurse and Morgan Rielly. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes could face a difficult decision regarding Alexander Nikishin. Finally, what’s the latest on Connor Hellebuyck, Jason Robertson, and Dylan Larkin— all of whom are generating serious buzz across the league?

Oilers, Maple Leafs Navigating Nurse and Rielly Decisions

The Oilers and Maple Leafs are both actively exploring trades involving cornerstone defensemen, though TSN’s Pierre LeBrun reports that neither situation appears close to resolution.

In Edmonton, Darnell Nurse has provided a short list of preferred destinations. Teams like the Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Boston Bruins are believed to be in the mix, but the limited flexibility could delay a deal. Interestingly, new associate coach D.J. Smith recently praised Nurse’s potential and a return to the Oilers is not out of the question.

Meanwhile, in Toronto, the market for Rielly is taking shape. He’s believed to prefer a move out West, with the San Jose Sharks and Anaheim Ducks among the potential fits. Both clubs could use a veteran presence on the back end.

Rielly may move before Nurse, but if no deal materializes soon, expanding his list of acceptable teams may become necessary.

Hurricanes Facing Tough Call on Nikishin

The Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly ready to move on from Alexander Nikishin, and teams are eager to make a trade offer. Fresh off a Stanley Cup championship, the 24-year-old defenseman is drawing significant league-wide interest. Darren Dreger reports that as many as six teams are already calling.

The driving force behind the speculation is his contract situation. As a pending restricted free agent, Nikishin is reportedly seeking a lucrative deal and is not expected to take a team-friendly discount on a long-term contract. Carolina’s philosophy is pretty clear: the organization has traditionally avoided overpaying for players before they’ve exploded as NHL players. Nikishin looks like a stud, but the Hurricanes have a way they do things.

With his value rising and multiple teams willing to bet on his upside, the Hurricanes could explore a trade if negotiations stall.

Bowen Byram to Sign with Blackawks

It appears Bowen Byram has every intention to sign an extension with the Chicago Blackhawks. He told Chicago media he’s thrilled to be there and Connor Bedard already called to talk about how exciting it will be to play with him.

As for his price tag, Darren Dreger reports an educated guess would be a 4-year term at around $12.5 to $13 million per year. Nick Kypreos believes Byram might sit tight and wait on new contracts for Quinn Hughes and Cale Makar before setting his price point on an extension. GM Kyle Davidson said, “We’re okay paying great players…”

Hellebuyck Drawing Interest as Teams Monitor Jets

Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck continues to generate interest around the league, even without being actively shopped. Teams are closely monitoring the situation in case Winnipeg becomes open to moving him.

The Florida Panthers remain a team to watch, but questions about what they offer in return remain. The Toronto Maple Leafs and Buffalo Sabres have also reportedly checked in. Buffalo, in particular, could be a dark horse given it can dangle the No. 4 overall pick as a return.

While no deal appears imminent, it remains a situation worth watching as he’s clearly the top goalie potentially available.

Stars, Red Wings, and Rangers All Dealing With Tough Situations

Several high-profile forwards are also at the center of trade and contract speculation. In Dallas, Jason Robertson’s contract talks remain unresolved, with reports indicating he could command upwards of $14 million annually on a long-term deal. With no agreement in place, Greg Wyshynski of ESPN writes, “One NHL executive that inquired about him said @DallasStars were seeking a “Rantanen” package back for the RFA winger. Please recall they sent two protected 1st-rounders, two 3rds and 2nd-year center Logan Stankoven to Carolina.”

In Detroit, Dylan Larkin’s reported trade request still hasn’t resulted in a move. Multiple teams have expressed interest, and the Dallas Stars have emerged as a potential suitor. That could come together quickly if the Robertson situation is dealt with.

Meanwhile, New York Rangers center Vincent Trocheck is quietly generating interest from teams like the Montreal Canadiens, Los Angeles Kings, and Buffalo Sabres.