As 2026 dawns, the NHL rumor mill is already churning with speculation surrounding several prominent teams, including the Edmonton Oilers and the Toronto Maple Leafs, as well as potential rosters for Team Canada in upcoming international competitions.
Oilers Eye Roster Adjustments
The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly looking to make changes to their roster, with forward Andrew Mangiapane a likely candidate to be moved. After a disappointing performance on the second line, the Oilers are seemingly ready to seek a trade partner for Mangiapane, hoping to free up the $3.6 million in cap space his contract occupies. Coach Kris Knoblauch's decision to replace Mangiapane with Jack Roslovic during a game against the Boston Bruins signaled a shift in the Oilers' thinking, with Knoblauch openly stating that "Roslovic is a better player". General Manager Bob Stauffer believes the Oilers will likely seek a forward to boost their unproductive third line.
The Oilers have realized that Jack Roslovic needs to be utilized in the top six to improve their offense. Knoblauch appears to be moving forward with a Draisaitl–Roslovic–Vasily Podkolzin line. The Oilers are now prioritizing top-six stability because weakening their top two lines is not an option.
Maple Leafs Face Uncertainty
In Toronto, the Maple Leafs are navigating a season marked by turbulence and inconsistency. Despite leading the Atlantic Division earlier in the season, the team has faced challenges, including a "downturn season" for captain Auston Matthews. The departure of star winger Mitch Marner, traded to the Vegas Golden Knights, further contributed to the Leafs' unstable season.
Adding to the uncertainty, rumors have surfaced about Auston Matthews' contentment in Toronto. While unconfirmed, reports suggest that Matthews may not be completely happy, fueling speculation about a potential trade. Teams like San Jose and Detroit have been mentioned as possible destinations. While Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving has confirmed that Auston Matthews has not requested a trade.
Team Canada Gears Up for 2026 Olympics
With the return of NHL players to the Winter Olympics for the first time since 2014, Team Canada is generating considerable buzz. The team has already unveiled its roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy. The roster includes a mix of experience and youth, with Sidney Crosby and Drew Doughty, both veterans of the 2010 and 2014 Olympic teams, leading the way.
Other notable players on the roster include Connor McDavid, Cale Makar, and Macklin Celebrini. Coach Jon Cooper will lead Team Canada, with assistant coaches Bruce Cassidy, Peter DeBoer, Rick Tocchet, and Misha Donskov. Doug Armstrong will work alongside Ryan Getzlaf and Scott Salmond to lead Team Canada through the 2026 Olympics. Canada will face off against Czechia on February 12 at Milano Santa Giulia Arena.
