We’re closing in on the start of the NHL season and that means more NHL rumours. There’s plenty to discuss with the start of the season coming at us very soon. Teams may be playing for the Stanley Cup for the 2023-24 season. However, general managers are always thinking about the future. Today is a defenceman-oriented edition of NHL rumours. We focus on the Colorado Avalanche and Edmonton Oilers in today’s edition of NHL rumours.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Colorado Avalanche
Rumour: Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman returned with another 32 Thoughts column. This rumour talked about the future of Devon Toews with the Avalanche.
Written 20. Can't burn out too early. Jay Wells and "Winning Time"https://t.co/RTwAYPpSpp
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) September 27, 2023
Analysis: Friedman made the point that Colorado doesn’t have an abundance of salary cap space. The defender could likely get a huge payday if he does hit the open market. However, Friedman said that Toews may be amenable to taking less to stay in Denver.
Both sides are keeping things close to the vest, but there may be some traction on a new contract. The Abbotsford, British Columbia native is in the last year of a contract that sees him making $4.1 million per season. Toews has been a vital part of the Colorado upswing and will want to get some sort of bump in pay.
However, Toews is probably aware that some big contracts are coming up with the Mikko Rantanen deal ready to end after the 2024-25 season. According to Friedman, Toews would shut down contract talks if they stall. However, a deal could be had if things go the right way.
Edmonton Oilers
Rumour: Mark Spector of Sportsnet speculated on the future of young defenceman Phillip Broberg.
Analysis: Broberg is currently on the outside looking in when it comes to the Oilers’ top six on defence. However, strong play could force his way into the lineup. The 22-year-old does need to start taking steps in improving his game. If he doesn’t, he could become trade-bait.
Edmonton is once again trying to break through and finally have a long run in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Broberg could be offered up as a piece in a deal if the Oilers have a glaring need in the forward group. Edmonton seems to think Broberg is in this in-between stage where he’s not quite a project, but not quite a regular part of the lineup.
The young blueliner has been working with Mattias Ekholm in training camp and he could be a big boon to the young Broberg. Ekholm has been out for a part of training camp, but he thinks Broberg can take the next step. The Oilers hope that Ekholm is correct.
Main photo by: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images
