NHL Rumors: Hischier, Ovechkin, Cassidy, Smith, and Wiebusch

New Jersey Devils forward Nico Hischier is focused on his current contract, with one year remaining, and will address potential extension talks in the offseason.

Alex Ovechkin has not yet decided on his playing future beyond this season. He plans to discuss his options with his family and team management over the summer, with health being a significant factor in his decision, especially as he approaches his 41st birthday.

Bruce Cassidy is eager to return to coaching as soon as possible, despite having a year left on his contract. He is expected to be a prominent candidate for upcoming coaching vacancies in the league.

The Los Angeles Kings will make a decision regarding interim head coach D.J. Smith's future after the current season concludes.

NCAA free agent J.J. Wiebusch, who was considered one of the top prospects for this year's free agency, has entered the transfer portal and will not be signing a professional contract, departing from the Penn State program.

English Translation:

Nico Hischier on a Contract Extension

New Jersey Devils forward Nico Hischier, when asked if the firing of Tom Fitzgerald on Monday changed how he views his possible contract extension talks this offseason, stated: "I’m focusing on playing hockey here, and I still have one more year. So, I’m with the Devils right now, and then we’ll see what happens."

Alex Ovechkin on His Playing Future

When asked about his playing future as his contract expires after the season, Alex Ovechkin said: "Not yet. We’re going to make a decision in the summer. I have to talk to my family, with Ted, with KP, Mc, and we have to make a decision in the summer." On what the most important part of that decision is, he added: "Health-wise. I’m going to be 41 years old in September, so you just have to be smart about it."

Bruce Cassidy is Looking to Get Back to Coaching as Soon as Possible

When asked if he wanted to take time away from coaching or get back to it right away, Bruce Cassidy's answer was swift: he is ready to coach again. Therefore, Cassidy is expected to be a subject of discussion as coaching openings arise around the league.

The LA Kings Will Make a D.J. Smith Decision After the Season

According to Pierre LeBrun, the Los Angeles Kings will make a decision on interim head coach D.J. Smith after the season.

NCAA Free Agent J.J. Wiebusch Enters the Transfer Portal and Won’t Be Signing Anywhere

Penn State winger J.J. Wiebusch is entering the transfer portal. Wiebusch would have been one of this year’s top NCAA free agents. He will not be signing a pro contract and will leave the Penn State program.