We’ve got some more NHL rumours for you as we close in on the NHL Draft. The chatter is getting louder as we get to the start of July. Some early off-season changes may have turned some things on their head. Toronto Maple Leafs fans thought that Ryan O’Reilly was going to be a rental. However, there may be a chance he returns. Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews will be looking for a new place to play if he does return in 2023-24. Could the Edmonton Oilers be a fit for the veteran? This edition of NHL rumours looks at that.
All NHL Rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Toronto Maple Leafs
Rumour: TSN’s Pierre LeBrun said that O’Reilly may be in the Leafs’ plans after all. New general manager Brad Treliving has communicated his interest in bringing back the veteran centre.
INSIDER TRADING with @DarrenDreger, @PierreVLeBrun & @reporterchris…
– Devils option for Hellebuyck?
– Jets/Flames trade buzz
– Yotes look to get into trade market
– O’Reilly/Leafs
– Bettman meeting Quenneville/Bowman in July
– Matvei MichkovWATCH: https://t.co/ZfP2hZHJHe
— TSN Hockey (@TSNHockey) June 20, 2023
Analysis: O’Reilly himself thought that he was rental judging by the comments he made during exit interviews. However, the new Leafs GM said O’Reilly’s representatives that the team would love to have him back. The Clinton, Ontario hasn’t closed the door on a return to Toronto next season. Many thought the salary cap situation would prevent the 32-year-old’s return to the club. However, there may be a small opening.
The veteran pivot might be the top centre in this year’s free agent class, which is thin in that position. He’ll likely get a nice contract wherever he decides to sign. This may be his last chance at scoring a big deal before he calls it a career. Playing for the hometown Leafs is a possibility, but he’s got other options that may give him more money.
Edmonton Oilers
Rumour: The latest edition of the 32 Thoughts podcast with Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek speculated on the future of Toews. That speculation led to a possible spot on the Edmonton Oilers.
Monday 32 Thoughts news pod. Links to your preferred platform here: https://t.co/qmTDPMIls8 Enjoy!
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 19, 2023
Analysis: Sportsnet’s Marc Spector wrote a piece that Toews could sign a one-year deal of $1 million to make one last run at a Stanley Cup. Spector’s article speculated that the former Chicago captain could mentor Ryan McLeod on the fourth-line. Signing would Toews would allow Derek Ryan to move to his preferred right wing spot.
This mentorship would almost be like what Mattias Ekholm is doing with Evan Bouchard. Toews has been in the league for many years and could help pass along some of his knowledge. The Winnipeg native only played in 53 games in his last season with the Blackhawks. However, he could provide some use to a team on the cusp of contention.
Main photo by: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
