NHL rumor mills are churning as the 2025-2026 season approaches, with whispers of a potential Evander Kane reunion with the Edmonton Oilers, intensifying trade talks surrounding Anaheim Ducks' center Mason McTavish, and other intriguing possibilities across the league.
Kane's Possible Return to Edmonton
Evander Kane, currently with the Vancouver Canucks, might not be finished with the Edmonton Oilers just yet. According to reports, Kane has been spotted in Edmonton during the offseason, participating in a summer beer league game under an alias. This has fueled speculation that conversations have occurred regarding a possible return to the Oilers once his contract with the Canucks expires.
Kane's previous stint with the Oilers was marked by significant contributions and a positive presence in the locker room. However, his departure was driven by salary cap constraints. As Kane enters the final year of his contract, a return to Edmonton hinges on several factors: his performance with the Canucks, Edmonton's cap situation, and Kane's willingness to accept a potentially smaller contract.
While a reunion is technically possible, it remains unlikely due to Edmonton's existing cap commitments, including Connor McDavid's anticipated contract extension and deals for other key players. If Kane is willing to return for a significantly reduced salary, a short-term deal in the $1 million range could be a possibility. The Oilers initially traded Kane to the Canucks to free up cap space. Some analysts believe that Kane could return as a solid depth forward.
McTavish Trade Buzz Heats Up
Mason McTavish's name has been prominently featured in trade rumors, with the Montreal Canadiens, Buffalo Sabres, Calgary Flames and Philadelphia Flyers among the teams reportedly interested in acquiring the young center. McTavish is rumored to be unhappy with a reduced role in Anaheim, especially after the Ducks added centers like Mikael Granlund and Roger McQueen.
While the Ducks haven't been actively shopping McTavish, they've received considerable trade interest. The Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes, and Detroit Red Wings have all expressed serious interest. The Red Wings, in particular, seem to be pushing hard for McTavish, and the relationship between Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman and Ducks GM Pat Verbeek could facilitate a deal.
Any team looking to acquire McTavish would likely need to offer a substantial package, potentially including a high-end, right-shot defensive prospect. Names like David Reinbacher (Montreal) or Axel Sandin-Pellikka (Detroit) have been mentioned as potential trade pieces. The Ducks are reportedly seeking a blue-chip right-shot defense prospect as the principal point of return.
McTavish, the 3rd overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, has tallied 140 points in 229 career NHL games, including 60 goals. In the 2024-25 season, he recorded 52 points in 76 games, despite playing on the third line with limited power-play time.
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