NHL Rumors: Kane’s Return, Reaves One More Run, Tortorella’s Next Gig

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, Patrick Kane had no shortage of suitors before ultimately circling back to the Chicago Blackhawks. How many teams were interested? Meanwhile, Ryan Reaves is pushing for one final NHL season. Will he get an opportunity? Finally, veteran coach John Tortorella is eager to get back behind the bench after a near-miss with the Vegas Golden Knights.

Kane Draws Major Interest Before Chicago Decision

Until Thursday, when he signed a two-year deal, Patrick Kane remained one of the most intriguing names on the free agent market, and it’s easy to see why. According to his agent, Pat Brisson, there were as many as 10 legitimate teams interested in signing the veteran winger when free agency opened.

Scott Powers of The Athletic wrote:

“But the Blackhawks weren’t Kane’s only option. Brisson didn’t want to get into specific teams, but he said there were 10 legitimate suitors for Kane at the start of free agency. Kane’s history with the Blackhawks offered him something the other teams couldn’t, but he still had a lot to weigh as he was potentially deciding on his final NHL team.”

source – ‘Inside Patrick Kane’s return to the Blackhawks: ‘It just makes so much sense’ – Scott Powers – The Athletic – 07/23/2026

While the full list of 10 isn’t known, the Buffalo Sabres, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Edmonton Oilers were believed to be among the group of clubs that showed interest.

Despite the wide market, Chicago always held a unique edge. One Kane knew they were hoping he’d return; it was just about taking his time and making sure. He had to weigh a few things, including whether this would be the final chapter of his NHL career.

There are also indications that any return to Chicago may come with conditions. Reports suggest that the Blackhawks are likely to name Kane captain, but that could change.

Ryan Reaves Eyeing One More NHL Run

Veteran forward Ryan Reaves isn’t ready to hang up his skates just yet. The 39-year-old revealed he has spent the entire offseason training with the goal of playing one more season in the NHL. Known for his physical presence and locker-room leadership, Reaves believes he still has something left to offer a team.

“I just think I’ve got one more left in the tank,” Reaves said, signaling his determination to extend his career. He’s also closing in on a major personal milestone, sitting just 38 games shy of reaching 1,000 for his career.

While teams may weigh his age against his experience, Reaves’ willingness to prepare and compete could earn him another opportunity.

Tortorella Ready for Next Coaching Opportunity

John Tortorella isn’t done coaching, at least not if he can help it. After the Vegas Golden Knights opted to move in a different direction following their Stanley Cup Final appearance, the longtime bench boss made it clear he still wants to lead an NHL team.

“Oh, I want to coach,” he said. He added:

“I want to coach now. I’m not sure if that happens, and that’s where I am in my career. But I wanted to coach that Vegas team. I told (general manager Kelly McCrimmon) that.”

source – ‘John Tortorella on the end with Golden Knights and what’s next: ‘I want to coach’ – JOe Smith – The Athletic – 07-24-2026

Unlike the situation with Bruce Cassidy, there is nothing stopping a team from contacting Tortorella or him from accepting a job. Tortorella admitted he had hoped to “finish the job” with the Golden Knights after coming so close to a championship.

The decision ultimately was GM Kelly McCrimmon’s to make and he had Ryan Craig in mind as the replacement early on. He let Tortorella know immediately.

For now, Tortorella is taking time to process the situation, but his message to the league is clear: he’s ready and waiting for the next opportunity.