Welcome to another edition of NHL rumours. Today, we will explore how real the possibility is of the Chicago Blackhawks trading Alex DeBrincat. We will also look further into the Edmonton Oilers being on the cusp of signing Evander Kane. Let’s dive in!
NHL Rumours
Chicago Blackhawks
Rumour: On The Jeff Marek Show (17:23), Elliotte Freidman said, “There’s this whole argument about (Alex) DeBrincat right now in Chicago. I don’t think the Blackhawks are looking to trade Alex DeBrincat, but if somebody steps up and gives them a monster offer for him, then you know, he could get traded.”
Analysis: Alex DeBrincat’s name has come up periodically in trade rumours over the past week. Freidman was talking about him in the context that anyone can get traded like Wayne Gretzky, but some players are more unlikely than others. DeBrincat falls into the unlikely category unless Chicago receives an offer they can’t refuse.
The Chicago Blackhawks are struggling right now, which was not intentional. They hoped to be in the mix for the playoffs after signing Seth Jones to a seven-year deal worth $9.5 million a season. Trading DeBrincat, their leading goal scorer, does little to improve their team unless they can receive a package of players that will fix multiple holes. Receiving that type of package for a scoring winger is unlikely. DeBrincat is very good and one of the top scorers in the NHL at 24-years-old. The problem is there are always scoring wingers available for cheaper prices. They are usually older and not as talented, but more cost-efficient, which is ideal. Therefore, I don’t think Alex DeBrincat is going anywhere. The NHL rumours will probably keep popping up because of how good he is.
Edmonton Oilers
Rumour: TSN’s Ryan Rishaug reports that a decision about the NHL’s investigation into Kane illegally crossing the border into Canada could come as early as tomorrow. This would mean the Edmonton Oilers could sign Kane as early as this weekend.
Assuming a decision comes tomorrow, sounds like Kane could be ready for games as early as the weekend, or early next week. Sources say he has been skating for a week or so in Vancouver. Contract details needs to be buttoned down, but strong sense Edmonton will land him.
— Ryan Rishaug (@TSNRyanRishaug) January 26, 2022
Analysis: Currently, the NHL is investigating an incident in December. Evander Kane tested positive for COVID-19 on Dec. 21 while playing with the San Jose Sharks AHL team, the San Jose Barracuda. On Dec. 21, Kane flew home to Vancouver, B.C. The Sharks terminated Kane’s contract because he violated the AHL’s COVID-19 protocol that required a 10-day protocol period. This process has prevented him from signing from another team.
Assuming he gets cleared to sign as a free agent with any team, Rishaug reports Edmonton is the favourite to land him, but Washington Capitals are also interested in him. The Edmonton Oilers are a good fit for Evander Kane. He is an elite power forward in the game. Last season, he scored 22 goals and 27 assists for 49 points in 56 games to lead the Sharks in scoring. His talent on either Connor McDavid or Leon Draisatil‘s wing would be deadly.
The Oilers can also use some secondary scoring. Outside of McDavid and Draisiatl, Zach Hyman is third on the team in goals with 11. For a team needing to battle for a playoff spot this year, Edmonton can use all the help they can get.
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