Buffalo Sabres Negotiating Extension with Zach Benson
Reports indicate that the Buffalo Sabres are in discussions with pending restricted free agent Zach Benson about a potential seven-year contract extension. The deal is rumored to be worth over $7 million annually, drawing comparisons to Josh Doan’s seven-year, $6.95 million per year agreement.
Islanders Likely Not Pursuing Elias Pettersson
Contrary to some speculation, it is unlikely that the New York Islanders have any interest in acquiring Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson.
Toronto Maple Leafs Not Likely to Trade Matthew Knies
Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving has downplayed the possibility of trading young forward Matthew Knies. He suggested that while anything is possible, it is improbable that the team would improve its roster by moving a key young player, despite the media interest such a move might generate.
Capitals Potentially Interested in Alex DeBrincat
With the Detroit Red Wings potentially exploring a trade of Dylan Larkin this offseason, it could impact other players, including forward Alex DeBrincat. The Washington Capitals are reportedly in the market for a top-six winger. DeBrincat, who has a history of scoring and has played with current Capitals forward Dylan Strome, could be a target if he becomes available, particularly if Larkin is traded.
Six Proposed Mock Trades
Several mock trades have been proposed as the NHL draft approaches:
- Florida Panthers acquire F Dylan Larkin from the Detroit Red Wings, sending F Anton Lundell, F Mackie Samoskevich, and a 2026 second-round pick (from WSH) in return. The Red Wings also receive a 2026 seventh-round pick (from CGY).
- Colorado Avalanche acquire F Jake DeBrusk. The Washington Capitals acquire F Valeri Nichushkin. The Vancouver Canucks receive a 2026 first-round pick (from ANA) and a 2026 third-round pick (from NSH).
- Carolina Hurricanes acquire G Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets. The Jets receive D Alexander Nikishin, F Bradly Nadeau, and a 2026 first-round pick.
- Anaheim Ducks acquire D Colton Parayko from the St. Louis Blues. The Blues receive a 2027 first-round pick and D Stian Solberg.
- Minnesota Wild acquire F Vincent Trocheck from the New York Rangers. The Rangers receive F Danila Yurov, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2027 fourth-round pick.
- Montreal Canadiens acquire F Mason McTavish from the Anaheim Ducks. The Ducks receive D David Reinbacher, a 2026 second-round pick, and a 2026 fourth-round pick.
