NHL Rumors: Demidov Deal, Roy and Maple Leafs, Lee Going UFA, Trocheck Update

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Montreal Canadiens appear on the verge of locking up a key piece of their future. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their coaching search, and an interview with a polarizing name went well. There are updates on Gallagher and Trocheck, and the New York Islanders may lose their captain to free agency.

Canadiens, Demidov Closing in on Long-Term Extension

Expect the Montreal Canadiens to move quickly on a long-term extension with Ivan Demidov as soon as the calendar flips to July. Insider Eric Engels of Sportsnet reports that the deal isn’t just likely—it’s imminent because of the financial incentive to get it done.

With the current collective bargaining agreement expiring on September 16, signing before that date allows Demidov to secure an eight-year deal with signing bonuses exceeding 60 percent of the contract’s total value. If he waits, it drops to seven, and the bonuses are much smaller.

Canadiens GM Kent Hughes has already labeled Demidov a core piece, and the player has expressed a clear desire to stay in Montreal. With Nick Suzuki currently the team’s highest-paid forward at $7.875 million annually, Demidov’s next deal could fall in the $8–10 million range.

Maple Leafs Dig Into Coaching Search, Roy Impressing

The Toronto Maple Leafs’ coaching search is heating up, and Patrick Roy is emerging as a serious contender. According to insider Elliotte Friedman, Roy’s interview “was really good,” adding that the former NHL bench boss is viewed as a legitimate option for the role. Toronto was granted permission to speak with Roy while also considering candidates such as Peter Laviolette and Jeff Halpern (Halpern has reportedly already been ruled out).

Roy brings a mix of elite pedigree and strong personality. A Hall of Fame goaltender with four Stanley Cups, he also captured the Jack Adams Award in his first season coaching the Colorado Avalanche. His recent stint with the New York Islanders had mixed results but he wasn’t fired because the team didn’t like him. They wanted Pete DeBoer, and that meant moving on from Roy.

Rangers, Maple Leafs Monitoring Trocheck Situation

Trade speculation surrounding Vincent Trocheck appears to be cooling, according to Darren Dreger. While rumors linked him to the Maple Leafs—particularly with Toronto potentially seeking center depth—the Rangers are in no rush to make a move. There’s growing belief that New York may hold onto Trocheck and reassess closer to the trade deadline.

The Rangers waited until the summer to try and get the best return, but they are not expected to pressure Trocheck into waiving his no-trade protection, even if his list shrinks.

Canadiens Give Gallagher Permission to Seek Trade

According to Rick Dhaliwal, “Brendan Gallagher’s agent Gerry Johansson has permission from Montreal to help facilitate a trade.” Gallagher spoke with the media this week and noted that he’s aware he will be moving on from the Canadiens.

With one year left on his deal, the Habs are hoping a team will take on Gallagher’s full contract without the need to retain salary.

Islanders Facing Uncertain Future With Captain Anders Lee

There is an increasing belief that Islanders captain Anders Lee could hit unrestricted free agency on July 1. NHL insider Pierre LeBrun reports that contract talks between Lee and the team have stalled, with both sides currently far apart on a new deal. While the Islanders would like to retain their longtime leader, the expectation is that Lee will at least test the open market.

At 35 (turning 36 in July), Lee remains a consistent contributor, producing around 20 goals and 45–55 points per season. However, his age makes long-term commitments risky, and negotiations may hinge more on term than annual salary. Lee has spent his entire 14-year NHL career with the Islanders and has expressed interest in staying, but if he does reach free agency, he’s likely to draw interest as a reliable middle-six winger with leadership experience.