Rangers Players Call for Management Changes

The Rangers are in a tough spot, and according to reports from Steve Dangle at SDPN, players are starting to express their frustrations. While speculation about trades swirls, it's clear the issues aren't stemming from head coach Peter Laviolette, but rather from general manager Chris Drury. The discontent among the players suggests they are invested in the team’s success, yet feel a shift in management is necessary to aid their aspirations.

Dangle highlighted that defenseman Jacob Trouba's comments about coaching turnover reflect the frustrations shared by many within the locker room. "It's not about entitlement," he noted, "but a collective voice advocating for change."

In an interesting twist, it has emerged that Kakko could be on the radar for several Western Conference teams, specifically the Minnesota Wild. Johnny Lazarus from Daily Faceoff has pointed out that Kakko would make a perfect addition to the Wild roster, sparking speculation about potential trade talks.

Oilers and Lightning's Near Superstar Swap

Perhaps one of the most intriguing revelations comes from Jeff Marek, who hinted at a near-explosion in the NHL landscape back in 2019. The Edmonton Oilers and Tampa Bay Lightning reportedly discussed an enormous trade that would have sent Leon Draisaitl to Tampa Bay in exchange for Nikita Kucherov.

This potential trade was serious enough that it included discussions about adding Anthony Cirelli into the mix. "Things got complicated, which ultimately led to the deal falling through," Marek explained. Looking back, the fallout from such a trade could have altered the trajectory of both franchises for years to come.

Tavares’ Contract Negotiations Heat Up Amid Salary Cap Pressures

As the Toronto Maple Leafs gear up for the next season, captain John Tavares is in active discussions regarding a contract extension. With his current seven-year, $77 million deal nearing its end, Tavares’ camp is reportedly drawing comparisons between his possible new deal and those of other notable centers like Anze Kopitar and Claude Giroux.

Interestingly, discussions have yet to reflect Steven Stamkos’ lucrative contract, suggesting Tavares might be angling for something below the four-year, $8 million annual average that Stamkos received. Given Toronto's challenging salary cap constraints, an extension similar to Giroux’s three-year, $6.5 million agreement could suit both parties well. However, it is essential to consider how the anticipated bump in the NHL salary cap may impact his final deal.

Matt Murray's Potential Comeback

In other Maple Leafs news, TSN’s Chris Johnston has provided an update that if all goes as planned, goalie Matt Murray could soon make his comeback to the NHL following a year of absence. This could be a pivotal moment for both Murray and the Maple Leafs, as they look to solidify their goaltending situation moving forward.

Stay tuned as the NHL trade rumors continue to evolve, with teams maneuvering for talent and considering significant changes to enhance their playoff prospects!