Jonathan Toews, the 28-year-old forward for the Winnipeg Jets, is reportedly contemplating retirement. Sources suggest that his retirement is more likely than not. While his leadership was valuable to the Jets last season, the demanding 82-game schedule may have taken its toll. A formal announcement is expected, and it’s understood that Toews is not looking to end his career by missing the postseason.
The Edmonton Oilers are actively seeking to address several areas of need. General Manager Stan Bowman is on the hunt for a speedy scoring winger to complement Connor McDavid. The team also requires improvements in goaltending, defense, a third-line center, and additional bottom-six forwards. Potential trade targets mentioned include Jordan Kyrou of the St. Louis Blues and Owen Tippett of the Philadelphia Flyers. The Oilers could potentially increase their salary cap space by moving Darnell Nurse and his contract, although his no-movement clause presents a complication.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are also facing significant offseason decisions. While defenseman Morgan Rielly’s name has surfaced in trade rumors for a couple of seasons, the current offseason presents a more concrete possibility of a deal. The San Jose Sharks and Edmonton Oilers have been linked as potential destinations. The Maple Leafs have not yet approached Rielly about waiving his no-movement clause, but may do so if serious trade discussions progress. In net, the team will need to make choices, with Joseph Woll, Anthony Stolarz, and Dennis Hildeby being potential trade candidates. Defenseman Brandon Carlo is also expected to be a subject of trade speculation. The team may also opt not to qualify RFA forward Mattias Maccelli, and pending UFA forward Calle Jarnkrok is not anticipated to return. Preliminary discussions have occurred with pending UFA defenseman Troy Stecher. General Manager John Chayka is actively canvassing the league to gauge the market for a middle-six forward, a top-six winger, and multiple defensemen.
