It’s Thursday and we’ve got some more NHL rumours for you. The trade deadline is less than three weeks away and teams have to make some tough decisions. Clubs may be having second thoughts on what they have and might be making a move. Today’s NHL rumours include the Toronto Maple Leafs, Philadelphia Flyers and Seattle Kraken.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Toronto Maple Leafs
Rumour: The Leafs may have to dig deeper to find some goaltending help according to The Athletic’s Jonas Siegel.
Jack Campbell has an .887 save percentage since Jan. 1. What now for the Leafs crease? Is Petr Mrazek the answer?
Plus, a top line that’s (somehow) gotten better without Zach Hyman, the shi(f)t disturber and increasing wear on Rielly/Brodie.
MMLR: https://t.co/YviNUKEzJv
— Jonas Siegel (@jonassiegel) February 28, 2022
Analysis: Both Jack Campbell and Petr Mrazek have struggled in recent weeks and last night’s 5-1 loss to the Buffalo Sabres didn’t help. Campbell played well to start the season, but has an .887 save percentage since the first of the year. Toronto’s offence was able to mask some of these struggles in goal. However, that’s not going to be the case when the Stanley Cup Playoffs start.
Toronto would like focus on defence to shore up their lineup, but goaltending is becoming a major red flag. There’s plenty of pressure to get out the first round for the first time in over a decade. Toronto doesn’t want to be let down by something that was a strength for them earlier in the season.
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However, it’s going to be hard for General Manager Kyle Dubas to make a move with the team against the cap and trying not to trade away more draft picks. The Leafs are hoping that Campbell or Mrazek can turn things around or it’s going to be something else for Dubas to seek at the deadline.
However, TSN’s Chris Johnston said the Leafs and the Edmonton Oilers likely won’t be in the market for goalie help. Things could change and the recent struggles may force Dubas’ hand.
Philadelphia Flyers
Rumour: We go back to TSN’s Insider Trading to look at where Flyers captain Claude Giroux may get dealt to.
ICYMI, INSIDER TRADING: #TSNHockey Insiders discuss…
– Foreigners bolting KHL as playoffs begin
– Latest on DeBrusk/#NHLBruins
– Fleury leans towards staying; does #Blackhawks rebuild include Toews/Kane?
– Update on Flyers/Giroux & RistolainenWATCH 🌍: https://t.co/RZGqldV35C pic.twitter.com/ZSKxpxwEY4
— TSN Hockey (@TSNHockey) March 2, 2022
Analysis: Pierre LeBrun said talks may start to ramp up next week when it comes to dealing Giroux. Philadelphia holds the hammer and can really get some value for the All-Star Game MVP. LeBrun points back to the Maple Leafs getting Foligno last season as a rental. Toronto gave up a first-round and fourth-round pick to the Columbus Blue Jackets last trade deadline.
The Flyers would likely ask for a lot more than what the Blue Jackets got for their former captain. LeBrun added that a first round pick, a young player, a prospect and two other high-end assets are the asking price. Flyers General Manager Chuck Fletcher knows he’s got one of the most valuable commodities at the deadline and wants full value for him.
Playoff teams like the Florida Panthers, Carolina Hurricanes and Colorado Avalanche would love a player like Giroux. However, it’s a matter of putting the right package together.
Seattle Kraken
Rumour: Mike Benton of 950 KJR in Seattle reports that the Kraken are working on an extension for Jared McCann.
Ron Francis on Jared McCann (on the last year of his deal as a pending RFA):
“He’s lived up to the expectations he’s been given.”
“One way or the other we’ll get something done with him moving forward, I’m sure.” #SeaKraken
— Mike Benton (@Benton_Mike) March 1, 2022
Analysis: McCann has been one of the bright spots for the expansion club with 21 goals. The 25-year-old is a restricted free agent at the end of the season and is in line for a raise. Seattle General Manager Ron Francis said that McCann has surpassed expectations they’ll get something done contract-wise.
The Kraken aren’t against the cap and have currently just over $6.8 million in space thanks to LITR players. However, that could balloon if players like Mark Giordano and Calle Jarnkrok are traded at the deadline. McCann has been injured and makes $2.94 million in the final year of his RFA deal.
Seattle has been beset with injuries to players like Brandon Tanev, Jaden Schwartz and McCann. They currently have $12.655 million in injured reserve cap space if you and Karson Kuhlman to the list. McCann should have nothing to worry about and get that new contract.
