It’s time for a fresh batch of NHL rumors to kick off the week. While the trade deadline has passed, there’s still plenty to mull over as we transition to the offseason. The recent deadline saw some notable players switch teams, and now the focus shifts to potentially extending their stays beyond this season.
Today’s NHL rumors hone in on the Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars, exploring the possibility of retaining these new acquisitions beyond the current campaign. As always, these NHL rumors are sourced directly and are subject to updates.
NHL Rumors
Edmonton Oilers
Rumor: According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman in a recent segment of 32 Thoughts, there’s already chatter about potentially retaining Adam Henrique and Sam Carrick for the upcoming season. The Edmonton Oilers acquired both players from the Anaheim Ducks during the trade deadline.
Analysis: Since joining the Oilers, Henrique has tallied one point in five games. While his production and ice time have dipped compared to his tenure with the Ducks, the 34-year-old doesn’t necessarily need to be a primary scorer. He could serve as a depth forward, bolstering the Oilers’ middle and bottom six.
Carrick brings a level of physicality that the Oilers have been lacking. While he might not be a prolific goal scorer, Carrick appears to be a crucial addition to Edmonton’s lineup. Hailing from Markham, Ontario, he’s willing to drop the gloves to ignite his team if needed.
Moreover, Carrick isn’t merely a enforcer; he’s also adept defensively, contributing in his own end of the ice. Both Henrique and Carrick could provide valuable support in defensive situations.
Oilers General Manager Ken Holland understands the importance of role players and depth pieces in the pursuit of a Stanley Cup. Both Henrique and Carrick are set to become unrestricted free agents at the end of the season, but their desire to vie for the Stanley Cup aligns with the team’s aspirations.
It’s plausible that both players have earned consideration for a spot on the roster beyond this season. Although Edmonton often contends with salary cap constraints, retaining Henrique and Carrick could solidify their position as top contenders next season.
NHL Rumors: Dallas Stars
Rumor: David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period has suggested that the Dallas Stars are keen on re-signing Chris Tanev for the upcoming season. Tanev is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season.
Analysis: Since his acquisition from the Calgary Flames at the trade deadline, Tanev has contributed a goal in six games for the Stars. His addition has bolstered an already strong defensive unit, featuring players like Miro Heiskanen, Thomas Harley, Esa Lindell, and Nils Lundkvist. Despite other Western Conference teams making moves, Dallas appears satisfied with the impact of Tanev’s acquisition.
General Manager Jim Nill has expressed his desire to retain the Toronto native beyond this season. Tanev, who is currently in the final year of a $4.5 million deal, has been one of the sought-after targets in the trade market. However, Dallas faces decisions with several impending free agents during the offseason, including Joe Pavelski, Craig Smith, and Matt Duchene. Additionally, Ty Dellandrea is a restricted free agent, while Wyatt Johnston’s free agency comes up after the 2024-25 season.
With a solid roster in place, the Stars are poised to contend for the Stanley Cup. Nonetheless, addressing offseason questions will be crucial to maintaining their status among the league’s elite teams beyond this season.