In today’s NHL rumors rundown, Elliotte Friedman offered up some interesting updates in his recent 32 Thoughts podcast, while The Athletic looked at rumblings surrounding Quinn Hughes. There was a hot take suggesting Evander Kane might return to the Edmonton Oilers, and Jack Roslovic is still on the radar of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Vancouver Canucks: Hughes and a Search for a Center
Quinn Hughes remains the biggest storyline in Vancouver. James Mirtle of The Athletic noted that while a strong season could persuade the Canucks’ captain to stay (he has two seasons remaining on his current contract), “it feels unlikely,” hinting the front office may need to start considering a blockbuster trade.
He writes:
“Maybe Vancouver surprises and has a huge bounce-back season that convinces their captain to stay. Feels unlikely to me, to be honest, but that’s their best-case scenario. Otherwise, they have to start contemplating what a blockbuster trade might look like and whether it’s all about futures.”
source – ‘NHL cap accrual explained, Quinn Hughes’ future and more: Mirtle mailbag, Part 2’ – James Mirtle – The Athletic – 08/21/2025
It is being reported that the New Jersey Devils are expected to monitor the situation closely, with a readiness to make a move if Quinn becomes available.
Edmonton Oilers: Goalie Shake-Up and Bold Predictions
In Edmonton, changes in the crease seem inevitable. Jason Gregor suggested on the DFO Rundown podcast that it’s unlikely the Oilers will finish the season with the same tandem of Calvin Pickard and Stuart Skinner. Allan Mitchell of The Athletic also hinted at a significant goaltending overhaul by next summer — if not sooner. “I’ll be surprised if after the trade deadline…the same two goalies are in Edmonton in Pickard and Skinner. I just think it’s inevitable there’s going to be a change there,” Gregor noted.
Off the ice, Edmonton analyst David Staples shared bold summer predictions on social media. Among them: Darnell Nurse could rewrite his playoff narrative in 2026, Noah Philp could be the team’s breakout star this season, and — perhaps most interesting — the Oilers might swing a trade deadline deal to bring back Evander Kane.
Toronto Maple Leafs: Roslovic Still in Play
Despite Vancouver backing off, Toronto remains “very much in contention” for Jack Roslovic, according to Frank Seravalli. Their interest in him dates back to the start of free agency, but for some reason, nothing has gotten done. Toronto made other moves to fill the void left by the departing Mitch Marner, and Roslovic, a versatile forward could provide depth in the Leafs’ middle six.
Related: Reading Between Lines on Quinn Hughes Blockbuster Trade Rumor
Any delay is likely tied to financial hurdles. Insiders suggest as many as five or six teams are still in the mix.
Anaheim Ducks: McTavish Talks Continue
Negotiations between the Ducks and Mason McTavish are ongoing, with discussions around both bridge and long-term deals. Friedman revealed that McTavish’s camp even considered offer sheets this summer, though none materialized.
Both sides are reportedly keeping talks cordial, and this is not a situation where the Ducks and McTavish are becoming frustrated. McTavish is pushing for a deal that reflects his value, but Friedman notes that all parties involved in the discussions have a reputation for being fierce negotiators.
Montreal Canadiens: Lane Hutson’s Future
The Montreal Canadiens are eager to lock down Lane Hutson long-term, and negotiations are reportedly circling the $8.5 million AAV range, though progress has been slow.
Recent contracts, like Frank Nazar’s in Chicago and Noah Dobson’s extension, are expected to influence Hutson’s number. It will be intriguing to see if Hutson holds out for a shorter-term deal and wants to hit the market again when the cap is higher, or looks to make his money early and sign for eight years.
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