In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Montreal Canadiens have been active over the past couple of months. How did these trades come together, and do they have anything else in their back pocket? Meanwhile, Oilers Now host Bob Stauffer released his projections for the 2025-26 season, but left a few key Edmonton Oilers names off his list. Why? Ryan Clowe jumped from the San Jose Sharks to the New York Rangers in a shocking front office move. Finally, is Evgeny Kuznetsov close to signing with one of two NHL teams? Who isn’t on his list?
Latest on the Canadiens’ Moves
According to Marco D’Amico of RG.org, the Montreal Canadiens were reportedly targeting a futures trade for Noah Dobson and were able to pull it after things went sideways with the New York Islanders. D’Amico added that Dobson was willing to extend in New York, but asked for $10 million per season. The Islanders said no and sought to do a sign-and-trade to recoup assets.
Meanwhile, Carey Price’s trade came in lower than expected, mainly because cap space isn’t a pressing issue, and the San Jose Sharks gained value from the deal as well.
Related: The Maple Leafs Are Sitting on a Trade: When Will They Strike?
The Canadiens also remain a possible landing spot for Ducks’ forward Mason McTavish if he were to be made available. That said, he would command a significant return, given the high demand and competitive market for a player of his caliber. There is nothing imminent on that front right now.
Subtle Hints at Possible Oilers Trade Candidates?
Bob Stauffer’s 2025–26 projections for the Edmonton Oilers tell some interesting stories this season. While he projects elite production from stars like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard, the omissions from his list create some fascinating questions.
Brett Kulak, Adam Henrique, Mattias Janmark, Kasperi Kapanen, David Tomasek, and Curtis Lazar did not make the projections, suggesting they may not play significant roles or could be moved before the season ends. Two players are new additions, but many of these names have been loosely linked in trade talks this summer. While Stauffer’s list might be a total coincidence, the fact that they weren’t mentioned makes one wonder if the Oilers might see them as movable pieces for an upgrade.
Henrique declined to waive his no-trade this summer, and Kulak is in the final year…
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