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The Toronto Maple Leafs have more work planned after signing Nick Robertson
Darren Dreger: After the Toronto Maple Leafs re-signed forward Nick Robertson, would expect that defenseman Jani Hakanpaa and forward Max Pacioretty could be next in line for the Maple Leafs.
The Fourth Period: The Toronto Maple Leafs have just over $400,000 in projected salary cap space after re-signing forward Nick Roberston.
Sources are saying the Maple Leafs could be close to deal with forward Max Pacioretty, He could get a PTO before a contract as they’ll need to find the cap space.
Defenseman Conor Timmins and his $1.1 million salary cap hit are believed to be on the trade block.
David Pagnotta: Sounds like the Maple Leafs and Max Pacioretty are moving towards a PTO and it’s expected that later he’ll get a contract – a one-year deal.
The Maple Leafs are working on making a trade.
Frank Seravalli: Max Pacioretty is expected to be a Toronto Maple Leaf this season.
Nick Robertson could still be traded before the season starts
Frank Seravalli: Nick Robertson signed a one-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs but it’s more likely that he’ll be trade by the Leafs than it is for him to start the season with them.
There is solid interest in the winger and it’s easier to a trade a player under contract than it is an RFA.
Dawson Mercer, New Jersey talks are moving slowly
The Fourth Period: David Pagnotta on the weekend that the New Jersey Devils and Dawson Mercer weren’t close to a deal as of Friday and things have been moving slowly.
“It’s moving slow, at the moment. They’re grinding away at it, but there seems to be a lot of work that needs to be done before they get to the finish line.”
The Devils and Mercer’s camp have talked about multiple options but a short-term deal seems the most likely.
A top 10 NHL trade block board
Lyle Richardson of Bleacher Report: A top 10 NHL trade block board.
1. Brock Nelson – New York Islanders
2. Rasmus Andersson – Calgary Flames
3. David Savard – Montreal Canadiens
4. Joel Farabee – Philadelphia Flyers
5. Nazem Kadri – Calgary Flames
6. Nicholas Robertson – Toronto Maple Leafs (article before he re-signed)
7. Peyton Krebs – Buffalo Sabres
8. Oliver Wahlstrom – New York Islanders
9. Kaapo Kakko – New York Rangers
10. Trevor Zegras – Anaheim Ducks
More must-reads:
- Concerning report emerges about Capitals star Alexander Ovechkin's health
- Eli Manning wouldn't help Giants QB Jaxson Dart with an unexpected request
- The 'Switch-hitter single-season HR leaders' quiz
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Carolina Hurricanes Eye Michael McLeod: NHL Insider Links Forward to Raleigh
The Carolina Hurricanes find themselves positioned for another successful season, but questions remain about roster additions that could push them over the top. According to David Pagnotta’s recent report, the organization has reached out to several players, including forward Michael McLeod, who could provide versatile depth to their forward group. Carolina Hurricanes Target Michael McLeod for Bottom-Six Role David Pagnotta’s reporting through The Fourth Period indicates the Carolina Hurricanes have made contact regarding McLeod’s availability. The 26-year-old center brings exactly what Carolina’s coaching staff values: versatility and two-way reliability. McLeod’s ability to play both center and wing positions makes him an attractive option for a team that traded away Jack Drury last season. The numbers support McLeod’s value proposition. Standing 6’2″ and weighing 192 pounds, he provides the physical presence Carolina often seeks in their bottom-six forward group. His faceoff percentage and penalty-killing abilities would slot nicely into Rod Brind’Amour’s system, which emphasizes defensive responsibility from all four lines. Why the Carolina Hurricanes Need Depth Up Front The Carolina Hurricanes have an array of fresh faces beginning training camp, including defenseman K’Andre Miller and trade acquisition Nik Ehlers. Their forward depth remains in question, nevertheless, especially after breaking ties with a number of role players in the offseason. McLeod represents a cost-effective solution. He played in 249 NHL games with New Jersey, averaging just over 10 minutes per game. The majority of those minutes were utilized in defensive and penalty-killing situations, which is precisely where Carolina needs help. Carolina benefits from the financial side of things. They can add McLeod without jeopardizing other roster construction plans since they have more than $10 million in salary cap space. They have more breathing room than the majority of NHL teams, which compete directly against the cap ceiling. Competition for McLeod’s Services Pagnotta’s report mentioned multiple teams showing interest, though Edmonton appears ruled out based on organizational preferences. The Carolina Hurricanes face competition from other clubs seeking similar depth additions, but their combination of opportunity and financial flexibility creates advantages in negotiations. McLeod’s suspension period ends October 15, with eligibility to play beginning December 1. This timeline allows Carolina to evaluate their early-season performance before committing to any roster additions. If injuries or underperformance create needs, McLeod becomes available at the perfect time. Carolina Hurricanes’ Strategic Approach The organization’s methodical approach reflects its broader roster philosophy. Rather than making splashy moves, they identify specific needs and target players who fit their system requirements. McLeod checks multiple boxes: penalty killing, faceoff reliability, and positional flexibility. This strategy mirrors their successful acquisitions in recent seasons. Players like Jordan Martinook found success in Carolina after struggling elsewhere, largely because the organization identified how their skills translated to specific roles within the system.
Fantasy Football Week 3 Start ‘Em and Sit ‘Em – Bench Hill?
The NFL’s Week 3 action begins with the Buffalo Bills taking on the Miami Dolphins on Thursday Night Football. Following Thursday Night Football, Sunday’s slate presents some fun matchups for fantasy football. Ending the Week 3 lineup will be an exciting matchup featuring the Detroit Lions vs the Baltimore Ravens. Who’s worth a start and who’s worth benching this week? Here are five players to start and sit entering Week 3. Five Players to Start 1. Rome Odunze vs. Dallas Cowboys – No. 30 vs WRs (NFL Fantasy) Considering the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants had a thrilling 40-37 showdown last week, definitely start Rome Odunze. Last week, in a 52-21 loss against the Lions, Odunze was targeted 11 times and caught seven passes for 128 yards and two touchdowns. In the Cowboys’ matchup against the Giants, New York’s receivers did very well. Malik Nabers scored 37.70 points. He caught nine passes on 13 targets for 167 yards and two touchdowns. Their secondary wide receiever, Wan’Dale Robinson, scored eight passes on 10 targets for 142 yards and a touchdown. The Bears feature two receivers in Odunze and D.J. Moore, but Odunze has been the alpha between the two early on this season. He can contribute mightily to fantasy teams in Week 3. 2. Drake Maye vs Pittsburgh Steelers – No. 28 vs QBs (NFL Fantasy) After allowing Justin Fields (29.52) and Sam Darnold (15.80) to some solid performances in the first two weeks, starting Drake Maye is a good idea. To start the season the Steelers have let up 200+ yards in the passing game and have struggled to guard the middle of the field. With weapons like Stefon Diggs and DeMario Douglas, Maye could have a big day and potentially throw for multiple touchdowns. Even with the Steelers having Ramsey in the secondary, their safety play has allowed big plays across the field. Until the Steelers fix their defensive miscues, starting the quarterback facing them makes sense. According to StatMuse the Patriots are 8-2 against the Steelers in their last 10 matchups. 3. Jonathan Taylor vs. Tennessee Titans – No. 22 vs RBs (NFL Fantasy) After a 165 yard performance vs the Denver Broncos, Jonathan Taylor will face the Tennessee Titans in a AFC South matchup. His 165 yard game netted him 29.5 points against a good Broncos defense. The Titans are currently giving up an average of 5.4 yards per carry. Seeing these numbers should give fantasy owners plenty of confidence to start Taylor against the Titans. Last time the Colts played the Titans on Dec. 22, 2024, Taylor rushed for 218 yards and three touchdowns. 4. James Cook vs Miami Dolphins – No. 27 vs RB’s (NFL Fantasy) James Cook is another running back on this list that’s coming off another 100+ yard performance. Not only did he score two touchdowns but he rushed for 132 yards vs the New York Jets. The Dolphins are coming off another bad game and are on a short week. With little time to truly fix their run game, Cook can take advantage of a good situation. Though he’s only averaged 37.3 rushing yards vs the Dolphins, there’s optimism he can have his first big game against Miami on Thursday night. 5. Kyle Pitts vs Carolina Panthers – No. 30 vs TEs (NFL Fantasy) With Michael Penix and Kyle Pitts’ chemistry continuing to grow, Pitts is finally inching towards becoming a trustworthy start. Though he hasn’t had a big game yet this season, Week 3 looks to be ideal against the Panthers. His four catches for 37 yards in a 22-6 win may seem disappointing, but there’s hope that he can bounce back. Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride averaged 13.0 yards per catch in Week 1 against the Panthers. Even Jaguars tight end Brenton Strange average 14.8 yards per catch against the Panthers defense. If Pitts gets big receptions in space he could be a threat in fantasy football this week. Five Players to Sit 1. Jacory Croskey-Merritt vs. Las Vegas Raiders – No. 5 vs RBs (NFL Fantasy) Even with his expectation to take more snaps in the absence of Austin Ekeler, sitting him this week may be the best option. The Raiders are only allowing an average of 13.20 points to running backs. Having to face Maxx Crosby should caution fantasy owners from starting Croskey-Merritt. Last week, Chargers backs Najee Harris and Omarion Hampton combine for 10.3 fantasy points. 2. Garrett Wilson vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers – N0. 5 vs WRs (NFL Fantasy) With Justin Fields missing Week 3 due to his concussion, there’s a reason to feel unsure about starting Garrett Wilson. After last weeks disappointing performance against the Bills, Wilson will face a well-rounded Buccaneers secondary. Facing a secondary of Antoine Winfield, Jamel Dean, Tykee Smith, Zyon McCollum and Jacob Parrish makes it a difficult decision to start Wilson. With Tyrod Taylor starting this week, his unstable chemistry with the receiving core as a whole may limit the production of Wilson. 3. Tyreek Hill vs Buffalo Bills – No. 6 vs WRs (NFL Fantasy) With Tua Tagovailoa‘s shaky performance to start the season, sitting Tyreek Hill vs. the Buffalo Bills is best. Despite Jaylen Waddle being questionable, the Bills defense could wreck the game for everyone on Miami. According to StatMuse, Hill has not had over 100 receiving yards against the Bills since starting his Dolphins tenure in 2022. The Bills defense has proven they can contain him and prevent him from having big time games. 4. Matthew Stafford vs Philadelphia Eagles – No. 11 vs QBs (NFL Fantasy) Matthew Stafford against the Philadelphia Eagles is a must avoid matchup. The Eagles have a fierce defense, including Jalen Carter and rookie safety Andrew Mukuba. Last week, Stafford struggled in the first half against the Titans before exploding in the second half in a 33-19 win. In the first two weeks, quarterbacks such as Patrick Mahomes and Dak Prescott have struggled against against the Eagles defense. In Week 2, Mahomes went 16-of-29 for 187 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He had to produce a lot with his legs, which Stafford cannot do. In Week 1, Prescott went 21-of-34 for 188 yards. 5. Ashton Jeanty vs Washington Commanders – No. 6 vs RBs (NFL Fantasy) Ashton Jeanty is worth the consideration of a sit this week. In his first two weeks, Jeanty has not cracked 50 rushing yards on 10+ carries. Since he is still adjusting to the NFL from Boise State, it’s okay to let him set on the bench this week or until he proves to be fantasy worthy.
Reporter offers theory on why Kirk Cousins has not been traded
There have been multiple injuries to starting quarterbacks through the first two weeks of the NFL season, which has led to speculation that the Atlanta Falcons might finally trade Kirk Cousins. It does not sound like that is close to happening. Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reported on Thursday that no teams have reached out to the Falcons about trading for Cousins despite injuries to Cincinnati Bengals' Joe Burrow, San Francisco 49ers' Brock Purdy, Minnesota Vikings' J.J. McCarthy, New York Jets' Justin Fields and Washington Commanders' Jayden Daniels. Cousins was once considered the type of player who would generate buzz if a team's starting QB were to go down. So why hasn't it happened? According to Rapoport, the Falcons have no real incentive to trade Cousins. Cutting the 37-year-old never made sense, as Atlanta has to pay Cousins anyway, hence why the asking price has not dropped significantly. "He is a proven starting quarterback who happens to be the backup quarterback. If Michael Penix gets hurt, Cousins will step in there," Rapoport said. "That allows the Falcons to drive a very, very hard bargain. In other words, if you're going to trade for Kirk Cousins, if you're a team that says, 'Alright, we gotta have this guy,' you're gonna have to pay some of the salary and you're gonna have to give up a real draft pick. That is the luxury the Falcons have. "If they've got to keep him, they can just keep him because he's an excellent, excellent backup quarterback. Perhaps that is why we have not seen a deal yet, but every time there is a real, long-term quarterback injury, we're gonna have the same conversation this season." Kirk Cousins was benched for poor play in 2024 Cousins lost his job to Michael Penix Jr. midway through the 2024 season. The four-time Pro Bowl quarterback got off to a decent start in his first season with Atlanta, but then played poorly for a stretch. Cousins finished with 3,508 yards, 18 touchdown passes and a career-worst 16 interceptions. There were numerous trade rumors involving Cousins during the offseason, but nothing materialized. That is mainly because he is only in the second year of a four-year, $180M contract. The Falcons do not seem eager to eat much of that salary in a trade, unless a team were willing to make it worth their while with draft-pick compensation. A desperate team could still want Kirk Cousins The Bengals are bracing for a lengthy absence for Burrow, who could potentially miss the remainder of the season. The other quarterbacks who have gotten hurt are not expected to be sidelined for very long. It is possible that teams aren't desperate enough this early in the season to give up assets for Cousins. There also seems to be a belief among some that Cousins' skills have declined, which makes it tougher for the Falcons to ask for much in a potential deal.
Bears veteran Grady Jarrett responds to Ben Johnson’s practice habits critique
The Chicago Bears are 0-2 to begin the 2025 NFL season and the new era with head coach Ben Johnson. The Bears lost a heartbreaker in Week 1 to the Minnesota Vikings, 27-24, in Chicago. Week 2 was much, much worse, as the Detroit Lions – Johnson’s former employer- blew the Bears out with a 52-21 final score. Johnson is not happy early on, and he held nothing back while discussing the Bears’ practice habits. “Our practice habits are yet to reflect a championship caliber team,” Johnson said ahead of Week 3. Well, veteran defensive lineman Grady Jarrett heard that feedback and had a response on Thursday, via CHGO Bears. “As a coach, you always want to challenge them to be better. We always want to put our best foot forward…Up to this point, we haven’t won a game,” Jarrett said. “He our head coach, he our leader, and if he said it wasn’t good enough, then we had to answer the call.” The Week 2 loss was so lopsided that Caleb Williams was removed in the fourth quarter in a surprising turn of events. Still, Johnson made his feelings clear about the way the team has practiced so far this season. Jarrett, on the other hand, is a veteran end who entered the thing in 2015, and he took the high road and showed support for his head coach despite the comments. In Week 3, the Bears face the Dallas Cowboys at home, which will be a tough test. It will be interesting to see how the team responds, especially after the new head coach just threw his players under the bus not even one month into the regular season. After that, the Bears face the Las Vegas Raiders on the road before a Week 5 bye, and the hope is that Chicago can find a way to get a victory sooner rather than later.
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