The free agency frenzy is done and over with. However, the rumour mill spins constantly. The trade market is hot and heavy, with Erik Karlsson at its front. While the attention is all on him, there are two other teams to watch as well. Today’s NHL Rumours involve the Winnipeg Jets and the New York Islanders.
NHL Rumours
Winnipeg Jets
Rumour: Elliote Friedman discusses the future of Connor Hellebuyck
Friedman on NHL Network: "I've had some people tell me that they wouldn't be surprised if Hellebuyck starts the year in Winnipeg"
— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) July 20, 2023
As mentioned above, the attention is all on Norris trophy defensemen Karlsson. However, the Jets goaltender highlights an active trade market for goaltending around the league. The Vezina Trophy finalist is coming off an excellent season for the club, and given the state of the franchise, his days are numbered.
Hellebuyck has said he is looking for a $9.5 million AAV on his next contract. Teams such as the New Jersey Devils and Buffalo Sabres have made contact regarding the goalies’ availability. Furthermore, that price has scared them away and rightfully so.
As Friedman has mentioned, it would be no surprise if Hellebuyck began the year with the Jets. Hellebuyck can raise his stock with a strong season, and the team can capitalize on a hefty return.
New York Islanders
Rumour: Elliote Friedman discusses the Islanders looking for a scoring winger
Friedman on NHL Network asked if the Isles are looking for another scoring winger: "I've heard Tarasenko and the Islanders were possibly a bad match and not going to happen. I do think they are looking for another scorer, yes, absolutely"
— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) July 20, 2023
The New York Islanders are not an offensively littered team. They are structured heavily on defence and also rely on their Vezina Trophy-caliber goaltender. However, something needs to change as the team ranked 22nd in the league in goals per game with 2.95. In fact, the Islanders ranked 22nd in goals scored with 242. The injection of offence is needed for this team.
Lou Lamoriello has kept the band together and is bringing back the same playoff team from last year. He did manage to dump Josh Bailey in a trade to the Chicago Blackhawks, but reinforcements are needed. Free agent Vladimir Tarasenko is still on the board and is a player Lamoriello has circled before. Friedman mentions that it could be a bad fit given their structure, but the need for the offence is there. Tarasenko is a five-time 30-goal scorer and hit the 40 mark once.
It remains to be seen what the Islanders will do, but adding scoring to pair with dynamic centers Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal is essential.
Main Photo: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
