In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks could be exploring changes in goal, while the Pittsburgh Penguins are standing firm on Erik Karlsson despite ongoing speculation. Finally, why would Nikita Kucherov not be in the mix for the Hart Trophy? One source has a controversial take on the subject.
There is a lot of chatter about goaltending in today’s rumors report, and with a limited market, those teams willing to move a netminder could do well.
Maple Leafs Could Deal from Goaltending Depth
The Maple Leafs may quietly be setting the stage for an offseason move involving their crease. With multiple capable options — including Anthony Stolarz, Joseph Woll, and Dennis Hildeby — Toronto is believed to be open to discussing its goaltending depth with other teams.
Related: NHL Rumors: Oilers and Red Wings Changes, Maple Leafs House of Cards
Clubs like the Philadelphia Flyers and Carolina Hurricanes have been mentioned as potential fits, both of whom could be in the market for an upgrade. If Toronto were to move a goaltender this offseason, they could address other roster needs.
While no deal appears imminent, expect there to be a ton of chatter around all three names. With the offseason approaching, this is a situation worth monitoring.
Hart Trophy Debate Sparks Controversy
A surprising twist has emerged in the NHL awards race, as Jeff Marek notes that he was told by voters they will exclude Nikita Kucherov from Hart Trophy consideration because of his missing the Olympics.
The reasoning? Kucherov got a midseason Olympic break, which allowed him time to rest while others continued playing high-intensity games.
Despite the criticism, Kucherov remains one of the league’s most productive players and he leads the NHL in points. Kucherov has been on an absolute heater and was the first player with 75 points over a 33-game span since Mario Lemieux in 1995-96.
Canucks Likely to Move a Goaltender
The Canucks appear poised to make a significant decision in goal, with expectations growing that one of Thatcher Demko or Kevin Lankinen could be moved. With both netminders commanding notable salaries, Vancouver is unlikely to commit roughly $13 million to the position long-term.
Demko, when healthy, has proven to be a top-tier starter, while Lankinen has provided steady play. The decision will likely come down to value, durability, and market demand. Either way, the Canucks are expected to be active in reshaping their goaltending situation this summer.
Penguins Committed to Karlsson Despite Trade Noise
Despite past trade speculation, the Penguins are not expected to move Erik Karlsson this offseason. While there was a time it was believed the organization would have dumped the defenseman if a team had been willing to take on his salary, GM Kyle Dubas has made it clear that dealing Karlsson is not part of the team’s current plan.
After a couple of troubling seasons, Karlsson has rebounded, rediscovering his elite offensive form. As a result, he remains a critical piece of Pittsburgh’s core alongside Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang.
Moving Karlsson would contradict the organization’s goal of contending during the final years of its veteran window. As the Penguins are fighting for the playoffs, it makes little sense to dump him now. Instead, the focus appears to be on building around him—adding complementary pieces rather than subtracting from the roster.
