In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Seattle Kraken aren’t done hunting for elite scoring after striking out on Artemi Panarin. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are being linked to an old forward, tensions are hopefully simmering between Mike Sullivan and J.T. Miller in New York, and the Montreal Canadiens appear content—but not complacent—with their current roster construction.
Kraken Ready for Second Swing After Panarin Miss
The Seattle Kraken made serious waves by emerging as a surprise bidder for Artemi Panarin before he ultimately landed with the Los Angeles Kings. Seattle reportedly put a massive four-year offer on the table. While Panarin chose Los Angeles, the Kraken’s aggressive push sent a message across the league.
According to Elliotte Friedman, via the 32 Thoughts podcast, Seattle won’t spend like that for just anyone, but they’ve shown they will for the right fit. “It’s known that the Kraken need more scoring in their top-six. If Panarin was a target, then it’s easy to determine some other potential candidates to join the organization,” Friedman noted.
With cap flexibility and a clear need, expect Seattle to pivot quickly and re-enter the market, whether via trade or free agency. Alex Tuch stands out as a potential target. The Buffalo Sabres remain far apart from Tuch in contract talks, and while trading him mid-playoff push would be unpopular, his long-term future remains uncertain.
Oilers Scribe Floats One-for-One Swap
Although the NHL is currently in a trade freeze, that hasn’t stopped the rumor mill from churning. For the Edmonton Oilers, conversations continue around upgrading their top-nine forward group while finding a new home for Andrew Mangiapane. One idea gaining traction is a one-for-one swap with the Los Angeles Kings involving former Oiler Warren Foegele.
The proposed deal—Mangiapane for Foegele—makes sense financially, with nearly identical cap hits and term remaining. From Edmonton’s perspective, Foegele brings speed, forechecking, and familiarity. However, after adding Panarin, the Kings may have little interest in another similar winger, meaning Edmonton could still need to move Mangiapane separately before addressing other needs.
It’s not known if Foegele would want to return or if the Oilers would like to bring him back.
Friction Brewing Between Sullivan and Miller in New York
While Mike Sullivan and J.T. Miller are currently united with Team USA at the Olympics, questions loom about their working relationship once they return to New York. The Rangers’ season has spiraled, and frustrations are starting to show—particularly in Miller’s public comments that he doesn’t know what to do with this team. Sullivan also seems frustrated that his message isn’t getting through.
Related: NHL Trade Bait List for 2026 Trade Deadline
Elliotte Friedman noted that while both are fiercely competitive, the dynamic between head coach and Miller must improve—or management may need to intervene.
“Mike Sullivan and J.T. Miller are on a business trip to Italy. Gold is the goal and nothing can get in the way. But, at some point, they need to sit down and discuss some Rangers. I understand that losing sucks and Miller doesn’t want to pour gasoline on the fire with his post-game commentary. But there has to be a better way than how he’s answering questions right now. It’s only inflaming tensions. Sullivan clearly is just as frustrated, feeling his message is not getting through. He’s the coach and Miller is the captain. They have to work with each other to make it better. Or the Rangers are going to have to change something there, too.”
Sullivan recently signed a long-term deal, and the Rangers have made a significant commitment to Miller as well. Still, if a major change becomes necessary, Miller could be the more movable piece, especially with contenders like Minnesota reportedly monitoring the situation closely.
Canadiens Content—for Now—But Watching One Spot Closely
According to David Pagnotta, the Montreal Canadiens are largely comfortable with their current roster, and GM Kent Hughes isn’t feeling pressure to make immediate moves. That said, there’s still an acknowledged desire to upgrade the right side of the first line if the right opportunity presents itself.
If a clear fit becomes available, the Canadiens could still enter trade conversations.
