Alright, hockey fans. It’s been a busy 24 hours, and while the dog days of summer are technically upon us, the NHL rumor mill and news cycle are still churning out some absolute beauts. Grab a cold one, let’s break down what’s got everyone buzzing.
Lucic Back in the Mix? St. Louis Takes a Shot
In a move that caught more than a few folks off guard, the St. Louis Blues have extended a professional tryout (PTO) to none other than veteran tough guy Milan Lucic. At 37, Lucic hasn’t seen NHL ice since October 2023 with the Bruins, and he’s just recently been cleared from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. Can the big man still bring that physical edge and veteran presence as depth forward? Time will tell, but it’ll be interesting to see if he can carve out a spot.
Red Wings to Raise Fedorov’s 91 to the Rafters
Mark your calendars, Red Wings fans! On January 12th, against the Carolina Hurricanes, the legendary Sergei Fedorov will see his No. 91 immortalized in the rafters of Little Caesars Arena. Fedorov was an integral part of those dominant Detroit teams that hoisted the Stanley Cup in 1997, 1998, and 2002. A truly deserving honor for one of the most dynamic players of his generation. It’s going to be an emotional night in Motown.
Sens Secure Their Future: LeBreton Flats Arena Deal Finalized
Big news for the Ottawa Senators and their loyal fanbase! The team and the National Capital Commission (NCC) have officially finalized a land deal for a new arena at LeBreton Flats. This is huge for the franchise, moving them from their current suburban digs into a far more central and accessible location. This move promises to revitalize the fan experience and could be a significant step for the Senators. It’s a long time coming for Sens supporters, and the anticipation for a downtown rink will be palpable.
Toews Joins the Jets: Scheifele Calls it a “Perfect Storm”
Jonathan Toews, after being sidelined since April 2023, is back in the NHL, signing a one-year deal with his hometown Winnipeg Jets on June 20th. Alternate captain Mark Scheifele is clearly ecstatic, calling Toews’ arrival “the perfect storm.” The former Blackhawks captain brings a wealth of experience and leadership to a Jets squad looking to make some noise. If Toews can recapture even a fraction of his old form, this could be a shrewd move for Winnipeg.
Keeping an Eye on the RFA Market: Swayman’s Shadow
With several Restricted Free Agents (RFAs) still unsigned, there’s chatter around the league that Jeremy Swayman’s contract dispute with the Bruins last summer might be influencing current negotiations. An NHL executive noted that while each situation is unique, the Swayman saga serves as a cautionary tale for both teams and players. It’s a reminder that prolonged holdouts can have repercussions, and finding common ground is usually in everyone’s best interest.
Quick Hits from the Rink:
- Passing of a Champion: The hockey world mourns the loss of former NHL forward Mark Kirton, who passed away Sunday at 67. Kirton, a significant advocate for ALS research, raised over $1 million through a unified effort involving all seven Canadian NHL teams. A true fighter on and off the ice.
- Oilers’ D-Man Dilemma: Rumors persist about whether the Edmonton Oilers will prioritize an extension for Jake Walman or Mattias Ekholm on their blue line. Decisions, decisions for Stan Bowman.
- Penguins’ Ownership Shake-Up? The Hoffmann family has emerged as a potential buyer for a portion of the Pittsburgh Penguins, with Fenway Sports Group (FSG) looking to sell a minority stake. Interestingly, Mario Lemieux’s former ownership group is also reportedly interested in re-acquiring a share.
- Stars and Robertson: There’s talk that the Dallas Stars explored a major acquisition this offseason that would have required moving Jason Robertson. Sounds like things didn’t materialize, but it shows the Stars aren’t afraid to shake things up.
- Wolf’s “Chip”: Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf is apparently entering the 2025-26 season with a “chip on his shoulder,” and contract extension talks are ongoing. Good news for Flames fans.
- Tkachuk Loves Ottawa: Despite some chatter, Keith Tkachuk has definitively stated that his son Brady “loves it there” in Ottawa and intends to be with the Senators long-term. Sens fans can breathe a sigh of relief.
That’s all for today, folks. Stay tuned as the pre-season inches closer, and you know there will be more news and rumors to unpack.
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