In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Philadelphia Flyers could revisit trade talks involving Owen Tippett this summer, the Edmonton Oilers are navigating a tough stretch without Leon Draisaitl, speculation is swirling about Auston Matthews and the Florida Panthers, and the Montreal Canadiens continue to be linked to a mystery trade target.
What happens in Edmonton now that Draisaitl is done for the season? And, should the Tkachuk’s be looked at for tampering?
Flyers Could Revisit Owen Tippett Trade Talks
While the trade deadline has come and gone, chatter around Philadelphia Flyers winger Owen Tippett hasn’t slowed. According to insider David Pagnotta, multiple teams expressed interest leading up to the deadline, but no deal ultimately materialized.
That could change this offseason. Tippett, who is in the second year of a long-term extension, has produced another solid campaign with over 20 goals and 40 points, continuing his consistency despite Philadelphia’s ongoing rebuild. Teams like the Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Minnesota Wild, Ottawa Senators, and Edmonton Oilers are expected to show interest again.
Pagnotta explains:
“His name popped up a bunch the last couple of weeks. I think the Flyers are in a position where they’re willing to listen, but you’ve got to make them an offer that entices them to continue the conversation. And I think there were a couple of scenarios where that occurred, but didn’t progress further.”
Tippett’s speed and scoring ability make him an ideal top-six option, particularly for contenders like Toronto or Edmonton, where playing alongside elite talent could elevate his offensive ceiling even further.
Oilers Await Playoff Clarity on Leon Draisaitl’s Return
The Edmonton Oilers will try to stay afloat without Leon Draisaitl in the lineup for the rest of the season, and while the situation is far from ideal, there is cautious optimism. As per a post by NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, “Oilers GM Stan Bowman on Leon Draisaitl: If everything goes as scheduled, he should be back at the end of the regular season. Does not need surgery.”
Following Tuesday’s 5-3 win over the San Jose Sharks, head coach Kris Knoblauch offered little certainty beyond the announced regular season timeline.
If Draisaitl can return for the postseason, even at less than full health, it would be a significant boost. His track record of playing through injuries—and still producing—gives Edmonton reason for hope during a critical stretch.
Panthers Speculation Surrounding Auston Matthews
The fallout from the recent hit on Auston Matthews has sparked more than just debate about player safety—it has fueled speculation about his long-term future with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Comments from Matthew Tkachuk and Brady Tkachuk defending Matthews have raised eyebrows, with some suggesting the Florida Panthers star could be subtly recruiting him. Brady and Matthew discussed the hit on the Wingmen podcast and said that the situation wouldn’t have happened on their watch.
Related:
Sid Seixeiro suggested that the two brothers are walking the line on tampering. He notes:
“Matt Tkachuk tampering? Yes, he is. What are you going to do about it? Imagine what they’re texting to him. The Matthew Tkachuks of the world.”
Matthews remains under contract, but if he signals any hesitation about extending in Toronto, teams like Florida will undoubtedly circle. With cap space available and a competitive roster, the Panthers could emerge as a serious contender—though fitting Matthews’ salary would require significant maneuvering.
Canadiens Continue Search for Mystery Trade Target
The Montreal Canadiens remain one of the most intriguing teams post-deadline, largely because of the deal that never happened. GM Kent Hughes admitted the team came close to a major move, and speculation continues to build on who that target might have been.
While Matthew Knies was initially linked, a new name has surfaced in Nico Hischier of the New Jersey Devils. Though unconfirmed, Hischier would be a strong fit as a second-line center behind Nick Suzuki, aligning with Montreal’s competitive timeline.
