NHL Rumors: Babcock to Oilers, Cossa Trade, Tuch Leaving, Gallagher to Canucks?

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Buffalo Sabres could be headed toward a breakup with Alex Tuch, the Edmonton Oilers appear to be closing in on a controversial coaching hire, the Florida Panthers may be eyeing a blockbuster move for Dylan Larkin, and the Vancouver Canucks are showing interest in Brendan Gallagher.

Sabres, Tuch Trending Toward Split

It’s starting to sound increasingly likely that Alex Tuch’s time in Buffalo could be coming to an end. According to Darren Dreger, there has been little to no progress in contract talks between the Sabres and the veteran forward. As things stand, Tuch is expected to test free agency.

If the Sabres are unable to bridge the gap, they risk losing him for nothing on the open market. That possibility raises the question of whether Buffalo might explore trade options for his rights before it gets to that point. Either way, this situation is one to watch closely as the offseason unfolds. It also teases what kind of contract he might be looking for on the open market. One has to think the Sabres offered a sizeable deal to stick around.

Oilers Zeroing In on Babcock Hire

The Edmonton Oilers appear to be moving steadily toward naming Mike Babcock as their next head coach, but the situation remains complicated. Bob Stauffer reported that ownership, management, and players are aligned and have greenlit the move, suggesting the decision is nearly finalized, pending any stoppage by the NHLPA or the league. “I’m not going to BS you. I’m going to tell you exactly the way it is, okay? 100% Mike Babcock is the Edmonton Oilers’ guy,” said Stauffer.

The Oilers consulted with their own leadership group and the NHLPA to determine whether there are any lingering concerns stemming from their interest in the former coach or Babcock’s abrupt resignation in Columbus in 2023.

While it doesn’t sound like there are issues within the locker room, how this hire could be perceived across the league remains unknown. Ryan Rishaug and Elliotte Friedman both noted that while internal support may be strong, fallout is possible. Some players around the NHL—particularly those unfamiliar with Babcock beyond headlines—might be hesitant about joining Edmonton. That’s a risk the organization appears willing to take.

Cossa Trade to Edmonton?

A bit buried beneath the Babcock news are rumors that the Oilers and Detroit Red Wings have gotten close to a trade that would send goaltender Sebastian Cossa to Edmonton. There is no confirmation from a legitimate insider that this done, but enough smoke around the story to mention it here.

We’ll update this as more is learned.

Panthers Could Pay Big for Larkin

If the Florida Panthers decide to pursue Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin, it won’t come cheap. According to George Richards, one potential asking price could include Anton Lundell, a key young center in Florida’s lineup.

Larkin would provide immediate top-line impact and leadership, but parting with Lundell would mean sacrificing a key contributor and a major piece of the team’s future. Offering up Lundell would force the Minnesota Wild and Vegas Golden Knights (the two other teams on Larkin’s list) to make strong offers.

Canucks Interested in Gallagher

The Vancouver Canucks are reportedly among the teams interested in Montreal Canadiens winger Brendan Gallagher. According to his agent, Gerry Johansson, Vancouver has already expressed interest, though discussions remain in the early stages.

Gallagher recently indicated he’s ready to move on from Montreal, despite having one year remaining on his contract. His connection to Vancouver adds an intriguing layer to the situation, as he has openly expressed interest in playing in a place he’s familiar.

There are still hurdles to clear, including potential salary retention and the Canadiens’ asking price in a trade. Still, this is a situation that could gain traction quickly if both sides see a fit. “VAN has initially expressed interest but lots of moving parts. It’s on their desk, they do have interest,” said Johansson.