Canucks, Kraken, Penguins, Red Wings

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Vancouver Canucks are receiving phone calls about the availability of Andrei Kuzmenko. Would they consider moving him? Meanwhile, teams are calling the Seattle Kraken about defenseman Adam Larsson. The Kraken need scoring. Would they make a swap? The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed Jesse Puljujarvi to a free agent PTO, and there is big news coming out of the Detroit Red Wings game where Dylan Larkin was hurt and David Perron ejected.

Canucks Getting Calls on Andrei Kuzmenko

Elliotte Friedman is reporting that teams are calling the Vancouver Canucks and inquiring about the availability of struggling forward Andrei Kuzmenko. Curious as to what the Canucks are doing with the player, teams have noticed he’s played under 15 minutes in his last few games and has been sat twice.

Friedman said the Canucks are looking to clear cap room and said that apparent friction between the coach and the forward could lead to ramped up discussions if the Canucks are open to moving on. Rick Tocchet was annoyed with questions about the forward in a recent media conference, noting, “I’m tired of answering questions about him. We came back, it worked out…Kuzy’s gotta…he’s gotta forecheck, let’s start with that.”

Friedman also suggests that veteran defenseman Adam Larsson of the Seattle Kraken is potentially on the trade radar of a few teams. The Kraken, in search of improved scoring, might entertain offers for Larsson if the right deal emerges. Larsson is highly regarded so the Kraken’s openness to a trade remains uncertain.

Related: NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs, Devils, Oilers, Sharks, Flames

Larsson is the kind of defenseman most teams want, so if the Kraken trade him, they would probably look to immediately replace him. But, if they aren’t going to make the playoffs, the team could become a seller this season. Balancing the need for offensive firepower with Larsson’s defensive prowess is a crucial consideration moving forward.

Penguins Sign Puljujarvi to a Free Agent Tryout

Forward Jesse Puljujarvi, recovering from double hip surgery, will be joining the Pittsburgh Penguins on a free agent tryout after gaining clearance for full-contact training. The 25-year-old boasts speed and size, but injuries and his deficiency in finishing and passing is what has hampered his career in the past.