NHL Rumors: Werenski Trade Pause, Nurse Pivot, Kane to Sabres, Ovechkin Retirement

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Columbus Blue Jackets and Zach Werenski have hit pause on trade talks, the Washington Capitals may not be closing the door on Alex Ovechkin just yet, and speculation continues to swirl around Patrick Kane. Darnell Nurse talked about his exit from Edmonton, and the Oilers were busy on Wednesday, but what is the status of their goaltending situation?

Werenski Trade Talks Paused, Not Dead

The Zach Werenski trade situation has taken an unexpected turn, shifting from active discussions to a temporary pause. After the Blue Jackets explored potential deals and presented one option to Werenski (Dallas), the defenseman ultimately declined a move following conversations with his family.

What followed was a wave of speculation that quickly escalated, with multiple teams linked as potential destinations. The noise appeared to overwhelm the situation, prompting both Werenski and management to step back and reset. Werenski now says he’s open to a return to Columbus and doesn’t want to be traded. “As I’ve thought about things and discussed everything with my wife and family, we want to be in Columbus,” said Werenski.

Despite the pause, this doesn’t feel like a closed chapter. Columbus still has long-term decisions to make, and there remains uncertainty about whether Werenski sees his future with the organization.

Capitals Sign Ovechkin to a One-Year Deal

** Update: The Capitals have signed Ovechkin to a one-year deal with an AAV of $4.25 million and bonuses that will see him make $9 million next season.

The Washington Capitals made several notable additions in free agency, sparking speculation that Alex Ovechkin’s time in the NHL might be over. However, the GM suggests that may not be the case.

Even after committing significant cap space to new contracts, the Capitals believe there are still ways to structure a deal that works for Ovechkin. GM Chris Patrick told ESPN that they’ll find a way. The most likely is a bonus-heavy contract, allowing flexibility within the cap while still offering the veteran winger a competitive salary.

At the same time, there’s no definitive decision from Ovechkin on whether he plans to continue playing.

Patrick Kane Rumors

Rumors continue to circulate around Patrick Kane, with one report suggesting a deal with Buffalo could be imminent. He’s from the area and has been linked to the team before. Now, as the Sabres are a more competitive group and things unravel in Detroit, the timing might be right.

As always, such speculation should be taken cautiously, especially with conflicting reports indicating he could go back to the Red Wings and some are even suggesting a reunion in Chicago (unlikely).

Nurse Trade Context Add Intrigue

Darnell Nurse’s recent trade to San Jose adds context to how the situation unfolded with the Oilers. Nurse acknowledged that his time in Edmonton had likely run its course, ultimately expanding his trade list and embracing a move west. He confirmed that he wanted to go out east at first, but after speaking with several people he trusted, they all said the same thing: ‘San Jose was a perfect fit.’

The Oilers made it a priority not to retain salary. They could have traded Nurse in other scenarios, but they waited until they had a situation that worked and allowed them the financial freedom to do what they did on day one of free agency. Ryan Shea was someone they had on their radar long before the Nurse trade was finalized. It’s why that signing happened mere minutes after Nurse was moved.

Oilers Add Levi and Andersen, But Goalie Picture Still Unclear

The Edmonton Oilers added Devon Levi via trade from Buffalo and veteran Frederik Andersen on a one-year deal in free agency. The question Stan Bowman was asked (even before the Andersen news) was what it means for Tristan Jarry.

Bowman confirmed Jarry will return next season. Does that mean Edmonton plans to run with three goalies? Levi would need to clear waivers, which he won’t.

Whether this is simply internal competition or a sign of further moves to come remains to be seen. Edmonton now has an interesting situation on its hands. They have three capable goalies, all making a combined total of just over $7 million.