Welcome to another edition of NHL Rumours! One big trade is already in the books, as Chris Tanev is now a member of the Dallas Stars. The trade rumour mill is churning faster and faster and the deadline is almost a week away. New names have popped up in trade talks but also in contract talks. Today’s rumours swirl around the Los Angeles Kings and Vancouver Canucks.
NHL Rumours
Los Angeles Kings
Rumours: David Pagnotta from The Fourth Period discusses a reunion for the Kings
Even though the Los Angeles Kings sit in playoff position, reinforcing the roster will be key. The team is currently without winger Adrian Kempe, which happens to be a tough blow for the Kings offence. He is second on the team in goals (19) and first in points (51). Even though the roster is deep up front and there is no shortage of contributions, the team will need a proven scorer. Pagnotta has a name in mind and a player the Kings are familiar with.
The New Jersey Devils will have a decision to make in the coming days. With winger Tyler Toffoli on an expiring deal and the Devils sitting outside the playoff picture, they could sell Toffoli off. Also, there is the potential extension that could occur too but for the Kings, this is a player worth calling on.
Toffoli has enjoyed life in The Garden State, as he has 25 goals with his new club. He has fit in nicely for the Devils and has been utilized properly. Although, Anze Kopitar will need a new winger and with the Kings in playoff position, acquiring Toffoli makes sense. The 2014 Stanley Cup Champion could return to where it all began and what a story that would be. The Kings will be a team to keep tabs on, as they are fighting for playoff seeding.
Vancouver Canucks
Rumour: Frank Seravelli from Daily Faceoff says the Canucks and Elias Pettersson are close on contract extension talks
The next set of NHL Rumours keeps us in the Pacific Division. The mighty may keep getting mightier, as the Vancouver Canucks are striving to keep one of their own. Elias Pettersson is a pending restricted free agent but could be a Canuck for the long haul. Seravelli sheds light on the contract situation.
Both sides are working towards a new deal that is believed to be an eight year extension. Nothing is imminent but could be official in the coming days. Whatever speculation of him potentially wanting out or a potential trade can be put to bed.
Pettersson is a major social point of the Canucks offence and a core piece to build around. Since entering the league, he has eclipsed the 60 point mark in every season but one of them. Last season was a career year of 39 goals and 102 points. He is in the prime of his career and a core piece to building upon this seasons success. It’ll be interesting to see what the contract will be and how it stacks up to his peers.
Main Photo: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports
