The NHL rumor mill is churning with several intriguing possibilities as teams gear up for the 2025-2026 season. From potential reunions to surprising trade requests and goaltending uncertainties, here's a look at some of the latest buzz.
Fleury to Penguins on a PTO
In a move that has delighted fans, Marc-Andre Fleury is set to return to Pittsburgh. The Penguins announced that the legendary netminder has signed a professional tryout (PTO) contract with the team. Fleury will practice with the team and participate in their September 27th exhibition game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Kyle Dubas, the President of Hockey Operations and GM, expressed the organization's honor in welcoming Fleury back, emphasizing his significance to the team, fans, and the city.
Fleury's return is viewed as a "full-circle" moment, allowing the team and fans to celebrate his career and contributions to the franchise. Drafted first overall by the Penguins in 2003, Fleury holds numerous team records, including games played (691) and wins (375). He led the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2009 and was part of the Cup-winning teams in 2016 and 2017. This move is largely ceremonial, a chance for Fleury to retire with the team where he made his name.
Kaprizov's Contract Standoff and Trade Rumors
Kirill Kaprizov's contract situation with the Minnesota Wild has taken a dramatic turn, fueling trade speculation. Reportedly, Kaprizov turned down an eight-year, $128 million extension offer from the Wild, which would have made him the highest-paid player in the NHL. This rejection has led to questions about his future with the team.
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding whether the Wild have asked Kaprizov for a list of teams he would accept a trade to. While some sources claim the Wild have made this request, others, including NHL insider Michael Russo, deny it. Kaprizov possesses a full no-move clause, giving him significant control over his destination.
Several teams could be interested in acquiring Kaprizov if the Wild decide to trade him. The New Jersey Devils, for instance, might consider trading for Kaprizov as a "mercenary" to boost their chances of contention in the 2025-26 season. However, the Devils might not be able to sign him to a long-term extension due to existing commitments to players like Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes. Other teams, such as the Oilers, Canadiens and Avalanche could also be potential destinations.
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet suggested that Kaprizov might be seeking an even larger payday than the Wild offered. As training camp approaches, the uncertainty surrounding Kaprizov's future makes this a situation to watch closely.
Carter Hart to Oilers?
The situation surrounding Carter Hart, one of the goaltenders acquitted in the 2018 Hockey Canada case, remains complex. While the NHL has reinstated Hart and other players involved, allowing them to sign with teams, his future remains uncertain.
The Edmonton Oilers have been mentioned as a potential destination for Hart, given their need for goaltending stability. Hart is from Alberta, and training in Edmonton has further fueled speculation. Some reports suggest the Oilers may not be interested in pursuing Hart. Frank Seravalli, an NHL insider, stated that Hart is a "non-starter" for the Oilers.
Despite this, some believe that signing Hart could be a significant move for the Oilers, demonstrating a commitment to winning. However, the Oilers would need to offer him a contract, as a PTO might not be an option. The Philadelphia Flyers, Hart's former team, are also reportedly interested in his services. The Oilers may be hesitant to sign Hart due to the potential PR blowback from signing a player linked to a sexual assault case.
