The rumour mill has fired up for the regular season as players, GMs and media wrap up their summer holidays and head back to school. As a result, rumours seem to be emerging from every corner of the league.
I figured the Bruins might just try and let their young defensemen fill the gap left by Dougie Hamilton, but it now sounds like they want to do something bigger with their blueline. Reports indicate they are still kicking tires on the trade front, although it might not be the mega-blockbuster deal everyone is hoping for.
The announcement that Alex Galchenyuk will be tried at center for the Canadiens this season has once again sparked the rumour mill in Montreal.
Some are saying the Habs could deal Plekanec as early as October. Others say they will keep him for the playoff run and risk losing him to free agency.
Byfuglien deal likely
Reports out of Winnipeg increasingly point to the Jets trading defenseman Dustin Byfuglien at some point this season. Unwilling to let an asset of his calibre walk into unrestricted free agency, the Jets could make this move sooner rather than later. Obviously, the Jets would be looking to move Big Buff for players that can help them now.
The longer Eric Staal goes without a contract extension, the more likely it is he gets moved before the 2016 NHL trade deadline. The Hurricanes may begin the bidding war in short order if they struggle out of the gate.
Pacioretty captaincy
All signs are pointing toward winger Max Pacioretty being named the next captain of the Montreal Canadiens before the regular season.
Brock Nelson sitting out 2015-2016 NHL season?
The Islanders have yet to re-sign RFA centerman Brock Nelson and the clock is ticking before training camp. As per team policy, no RFA may play for the Islanders if they miss the start of camp. Would this open the door for a trade? Certainly, the young pivot would garner plenty of interest around the league.