As the NHL season progresses, trade rumors continue to swirl around several teams, including the Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Vancouver Canucks. Here's a breakdown of the latest buzz surrounding these Canadian clubs.
Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly considering trading forward Andrew Mangiapane. He was a healthy scratch in a recent game against Winnipeg, fueling speculation that a trade could be imminent. While Mangiapane has a full no-trade clause and a $3.6 million cap hit through 2026-27, there may still be teams interested in acquiring him. There are reports that Mangiapane's agent has been granted permission to facilitate a trade. Criticism from fans may also be a factor in the Oilers' willingness to move Mangiapane.
The Oilers are also looking to get younger and faster. With prospects like Ike Howard and Matt Seavoi potentially grabbing full-time spots, the Oilers may be willing to move other players to create roster space.
Goaltending changes may also be in the works for the Oilers. Stuart Skinner was recently traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in a deal that sent Tristan Jarry to Edmonton. However, Skinner's performance in Pittsburgh has been lackluster, and the Penguins may be open to moving him again for minimal return. Given Skinner's playoff experience and relatively low cap hit ($2.6 million, potentially reduced with salary retention), a playoff team might take a chance on him as a backup option.
Toronto Maple Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing speculation about potential roster changes after a season of struggles. Some analysts suggest the team is at a crossroads after failing to achieve playoff success despite a star-studded core. This has led to discussions about potentially trading even a star player like Auston Matthews. One suggestion involves a trade to the San Jose Sharks for a package centered around Michael Misa.
The Leafs may also consider trading Niclos Roy, a right-shot center with a reasonable $3 million contract through 2026-27. Roy's performance this season has been inconsistent, making him a possible trade candidate. Dakota Joshua is another player whose future with the Leafs is uncertain. Furthermore, forward Matias Maccelli has not lived up to expectations since being acquired by the Maple Leafs.
Prior to being traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets, Mason Marchment was linked to the Maple Leafs. However, Marchment apparently had the Maple Leafs on his no-trade list, effectively nixing any potential deal.
Vancouver Canucks
Evander Kane's future with the Vancouver Canucks is uncertain. Although the trade with Edmonton that brought Kane to Vancouver hasn't worked out as hoped, the Canucks may look to move him. Kane's contract could be a hurdle, but his ability to hit, skate, and score might make him an attractive addition for some teams.
Other potential moves
The Pittsburgh Penguins, having acquired Brett Kulak in the trade that sent Tristan Jarry to Edmonton, may be open to moving him again.
Linus Ullmark of the Ottawa Senators has taken a leave of absence from the team for personal reasons. The Senators have expressed their full support for Ullmark and will respect his privacy.
