NHL Trade Rumors: Flames, Blue Jackets, Blackhawks All Eyeing Moves as Season Progresses
The NHL season is still young, but several teams are already assessing their options and potential trades as they navigate early challenges and opportunities. From Calgary’s struggles to Columbus’s ongoing roster evaluation and Chicago’s prospect maneuvering, the rumor mill is churning with activity. Here’s a break
down of the latest NHL trade rumors:
Calgary Flames: Exploring Options Amidst Slow start
The Calgary Flames are off to a disastrous start, posting a 1-6-1 record, and General Manager Craig Conroy is reportedly “taking the pulse of the market,” according to sources. Inevitably, the name of Nazem Kadri has surfaced in trade discussions. Despite being 35, Kadri remains a valuable asset, having demonstrated playoff prowess with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022.
Though, his $7 million annual salary through 2028 could deter some teams. A partial no-movement clause, covering 13 teams, further complicates matters. Despite thes hurdles, a rising salary cap could attract suitors if Kadri becomes available closer to the trade deadline. Alongside Kadri,Rasmus Andersson is also being mentioned as a potential trade chip for the Flames.
Yegor Chinakhov: Still Seeking a New Chance
The situation surrounding Yegor Chinakhov in Columbus remains fluid. The 24-year-old forward continues to seek a trade, even after switching agents last month to Rick Komarow, who has been granted permission to engage in direct talks with other teams. Several teams have expressed interest, including the Buffalo Sabres, Florida Panthers, Detroit Red Wings, and potentially the Calgary Flames.
The Toronto Maple Leafs reportedly offered attacker Nick Robertson in a potential deal, but the Blue Jackets are hesitant to trade their former first-round pick (2020) for a minimal return. Columbus is prioritizing acquiring an NHL player in exchange for Chinakhov, as they remain committed to playoff contention. Despite a slow start to the season, Chinakhov has recently played in three consecutive games, recording one assist, and his name continues to draw attention from 26 scouts who attended his first game of the season.A departure appears increasingly likely, though the timing and destination remain uncertain.
Lukas Reichel: Chicago weighs Options for Promising Prospect
The Chicago Blackhawks are also exploring trade possibilities, specifically concerning prospect Lukas Reichel. The 2020 first-round pick (17th overall) has played two seasons in the NHL but has yet to establish a notable impact. Though, a strong start to the current season with 4 points in 5 games has piqued interest.
The Blackhawks are reportedly seeking a good draft pick in return, capitalizing on Reichel’s recent performance. His contract, expiring this summer with RFA status, adds urgency to the situation. A potential trade between Chicago and Columbus, involving Reichel and chinakhov, has been speculated.
NHL Rumors in Brief
- Discussions are ongoing between the Los Angeles Kings and Adrian Kempe‘s representatives regarding a contract extension, with the forward expected to command a salary exceeding $10 million. His strong start to the season (11 points in 8 games) strengthens his negotiating position.
- The New York Rangers are reportedly seeking promising AHL prospects in exchange for Brennan Othmann, with the toronto Maple Leafs and Columbus Blue Jackets potentially interested.
- A contract extension between the Ottawa Senators and Shane Pinto is considered likely,though it is expected to be a short-term deal,potentially spanning three years,according to one insider.
- Jeff Gorton, currently with the Montreal Canadiens, has reportedly been approached for positions by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2023, the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2024, and the New York Islanders in 2025, but was retained by the Canadiens each time.
The early stages of the NHL season are proving to be a hotbed of trade speculation, and these storylines are likely to evolve as teams assess their needs and opportunities in the months ahead.
