NHL Rumors: Robertson Decision, New Hellebuyck Suitor, Oilers Almost Lost Goalie, Leafs Miss Giroux

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Dallas Stars might be close to learning Jason Robertson’s fate. Meanwhile, did a new team join the Connor Hellebuyck sweepstakes? Frederik Andersen was almost heading elsewhere before he joined the Edmonton Oilers. Finally, the Toronto Maple Leafs came up short despite a big offer to Claude Giroux.

Jason Robertson Nearing Decision Point in Dallas

The contract standoff between Jason Robertson and the Dallas Stars appears to be approaching a resolution, with arbitration set for July 25. However, there’s a growing belief that things will be settled prior to that date.

Team insider Bruce Levine suggested the saga will conclude beforehand, either with a new deal or a trade. The Pittsburgh Penguins are waiting in the wings to see how this all plays out, with Robertson reportedly willing to go there. His preference, however, is to stay in Dallas.

He is coming off a stellar 96-point season, but negotiations have reportedly been difficult.

If this goes sideways, several teams—including Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Detroit—are believed to have interest.

Sharks Circling the Connor Hellebuyck Sweepstakes?

For weeks, the Buffalo Sabres have been viewed as the frontrunner to land Connor Hellebuyck, but a new contender may be gaining traction. The San Jose Sharks are reportedly positioning themselves as a serious option, especially after signing Eric Comrie—Hellebuyck’s longtime backup in Winnipeg.

The Winnipeg Free Press’ Mike McIntyre believes Buffalo remains the most logical landing spot, but he can’t help but shake the feeling that San Jose is a solid fit. GM Mike Grier has been making moves this summer, and adding Hellebuyck would be his biggest swing to date. Could acquiring Hellebuyck be the blockbuster move that accelerates the Sharks’ rebuild into playoff contention?

Oilers Got Andersen After the Panthers Pivoted

There’s a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the Edmonton Oilers’ goaltending situation, thanks to the additions of Frederik Andersen and Devon Levi alongside Tristan Jarry. Andersen, in particular, is generating buzz as potentially the best goalie the team has had during the Connor McDavid era.

Interestingly, Andersen nearly ended up elsewhere. According to Elliotte Friedman, there was a strong belief he would sign with the Florida Panthers before they pivoted and acquired Jacob Markstrom instead. That unexpected shift allowed Edmonton to step in and secure Andersen on a one-year, incentive-laden deal.

Interestingly, there’s a sense that Andersen will be given the starting job in Edmonton to start the 2026-27 season. His link to new head coach Mike Babcock may be the reason why.

Maple Leafs Fall Short in Claude Giroux Pursuit

The Toronto Maple Leafs made a significant push to land veteran forward Claude Giroux in free agency, reportedly offering him the most lucrative contract on the table. Despite that, Giroux ultimately chose to remain with the Ottawa Senators.

Both Bruce Garrioch and Elliotte Friedman confirmed Toronto’s strong interest and aggressive bid. Garrioch wrote:

“The Citizen also reported that the Toronto Maple Leafs were interested, along with the Edmonton Oilers. The talk is that the Leafs offered Giroux the biggest contract, but Toronto isn’t the type of market that fits the mould for the kind of player that he is.”

source – ‘Claude Giroux returns to the Ottawa Senators to complete unfinished business’- Bruce Garroich – Ottawa Citizen – 07/07/2026

Missing out on Giroux is another reminder that money alone doesn’t always secure top talent, especially in a market like Toronto. The Leafs are still exploring other options, with speculation that GM John Chayka is open to one more blockbuster-type move.