We’re through the first day of NHL free agency, but there are plenty of NHL rumours still left. Day one has seen some big moves, but there are still some names out there to be had. This edition of NHL rumours will be a defencmen-centric edition. Matt Dumba is still out there and one team needs a top-four blueliner. However, the big prize is Erik Karlsson and he could be moving to a contender. This edition of NHL rumours focuses on the Carolina Hurricanes and Buffalo Sabres.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Carolina Hurricanes
Rumour: TSN’s and The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun said the Hurricanes may still be in on the reigning Norris Trophy winner.
The Hurricanes continue to push on Erik Karlsson. We’ll see where it goes, but the next 24-48 hours should be interesting on that front.
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) July 2, 2023
Analysis: Carolina didn’t wait around to solve some of their defensive puzzle by signing Dmitry Orlov on Saturday. However, Karlsson istill very much in play for the team. Making a big swing hasn’t been something general manager Don Waddell has done with the team. However, players like Karlsson don’t become available that often. Getting one of the top defencemen in the league could tip the balance of power in the Hurricanes’ favour.
One could probably see Brett Pesce be part of the deal that will be a blockbuster. Do the Sharks take the risk and have that much dead money on the cap with salary retention? Could a third team cone in as a broker? There are plenty of questions surrounding this deal. Carolina will have to make a lot happen in order to secure the services of one of the best players in the game.
Buffalo Sabres
Rumour: Lance Lysowski of The Buffalo News said the team is in the market for a top-four defenceman still.
Analysis: General manager Kevyn Adams did sign Connor Clifton to a three-year deal. However, he’s only partially the answer for a team that has some good defensive players. Owen Power and Rasmus Dahlin look to be cornerstones on the blueline. However, the Sabres need to add another top-four blueliner to help the club.
A number of names have already come off the board, but there is one out there that hasn’t been signed. Dumba is out there and still looking for a team. He did play better in the second half after some early struggles. Lysowski mentioned players like Scott Mayfield and Ryan Graves, but both were signed on the opening day. Buffalo does have some room, but they want to have money for Power and Dahlin and their upcoming extensions.
Main photo by: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
