NHL Weekend Rumors: Hellebuyck, Larkin, Kane, Petterson, Robertson…

In this weekend’s NHL Trade Talk rumor report, the Toronto Maple Leafs may not be done making moves, the Vancouver Canucks continue to field calls on Elias Pettersson, and the Winnipeg Jets and Buffalo Sabres could be getting closer on a deal involving Connor Hellebuyck.

Around the league, several teams are quietly positioning themselves for bigger swings, while others weigh contract extensions, trade possibilities, and long-term flexibility.

Maple Leafs, Red Wings, and Patrick Kane Buzz

The Maple Leafs remain a team to watch, as Elliotte Friedman noted they aren’t finished exploring the market. Some believe GM John Chayka’s changes behind the bench and in management are not the end of the moves he intends to make. There have also been loose conversations involving Patrick Kane, and the Matthew Knies talk never seems to completely go away.

Daniel Alfredsson joined the Leafs in an associate coaching capacity. This was after he interviewed for the head coach position. He had informed the Ottawa Senators he was planning to leave regardless, seeing that he didn’t see advancement there and wanted a new opportunity to grow.

Latest on the Red Wings and Dylan Larkin

Elsewhere, the Dylan Larkin trade chatter has cooled significantly since the draft, though Detroit did explore big asks, including a rumored pitch to Dallas involving Wyatt Johnston. There is talk that Dallas is now officially on his approved list and other teams are asking if they can get on it, including the San Jose Sharks, New Jersey Devils, and Seattle Kraken.

Nothing is imminent.

Canucks, Penguins, and Pettersson Speculation

The Vancouver Canucks continue to draw interest in Elias Pettersson, particularly from the Pittsburgh Penguins. GM Kyle Dubas has shown at least some interest, though nothing appears to be close. The Penguins are also said to be still in the mix for Jason Robertson and they clearly can’t add both players.

Vancouver has also been active in other discussions, including trade interest in Jake DeBrusk, though it is unclear if anything is close there.

Hellebuyck to the Sabres Getting Closer?

Connor Hellebuyck trade rumors picked up significant momentum over the weekend, with David Pagnotta reporting that Hellebuyck wants to go to Buffalo. While talks between Winnipeg and Buffalo nearly led to a deal around the NHL Draft, disagreements over draft-pick compensation—particularly involving the Sabers’ top selections—prevented a deal from being done.