In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Toronto Maple Leafs are bracing for major offseason changes, the Ottawa Senators are battling through key injuries, and speculation is quietly building around the long-term future of Connor McDavid with the Edmonton Oilers. Could he ask for a trade? One scribe thinks so.
It is expected that the Toronto Maple Leafs will look very different next season. Plus, how frustrated will McDavid wind up being before something drastic happens in Edmonton?
Maple Leafs Facing Offseason Shakeup
There is a growing belief that Toronto will look drastically different next season. As Elliotte Friedman noted, “This is going to be an offseason of change in Toronto, and they’re definitely not coming back the same.”
Related: Maple Leafs Reportedly Ready to Move Players Out This Summer
The Maple Leafs are expected to prioritize speed and inject new energy into their lineup. Much of their direction, however, hinges on Auston Matthews—how he looks moving forward and what he wants to do. The Leafs will conduct a full internal review, hold their exit meetings, and some moves will be based on what key players beyond Matthews decide.
Friedman noted that he was really curious about what Chris Tanev might say at the end of the season. He was a big missing piece for them, and his being gone due to an injury was a massive blow. If he’s committed, that could trickle down to other players who rely on his leadership.
Senators Lose Chabot for Up to 8 Weeks
The Senators remain red hot, but they’re facing an uphill battle after learning they will be without Thomas Chabot for up to eight weeks. He is undergoing surgery on his right arm. Head coach Travis Green confirmed a recovery timeline of four to eight weeks, a potentially significant blow to Ottawa’s playoff hopes.
The injury came as a result of a cross-check by J.T. Miller, sparking debate after no penalty was called. Chabot joins a growing list of sidelined defenders, including Jake Sanderson and Nick Jensen—all key members of the team’s top four.
As for how the Sens keep pulling off wins, veteran Lars Eller credited the team’s character, noting that even if they could, they’re not looking to make excuses. Still, the Senators’ depth will be tested.
McDavid Speculation Lingers in Edmonton
While nothing is imminent, speculation surrounding Connor McDavid’s future in Edmonton continues to be a topic of discussion. One theory gaining traction is that if the Oilers miss the playoffs or bow out early, the superstar captain could eventually reconsider his options, including asking for a possible trade.
McDavid is under contract through 2028 after signing a two-year extension, a deal widely viewed as giving management time to solidify a contender. Frustration has reportedly started to creep in amid the team’s struggles.
Gerry Moddejonge of the Edmonton Journal writes:
“Of course, it’s willful ignorance around here that fans choose to remain blind to the fact Connor McDavid could demand a trade at any point. And he is a guy who gets what he wants — unless, of course, we’re talking about bringing the Stanley Cup back to Edmonton. The harsh truth is he may end up having to go elsewhere in order to cement his legacy with the hardest trophy there is to win in professional sports.”
source – ‘ OILERS MAILBAG: At what point does McDavid abandon this sinking ship?’ – Edmonton Journal – Gerry Moddejonge 03/25/2026
The scribe adds, “But he’s not there just yet. Come talk to us next summer and it could be a different story, because with each passing interview, the frustration level is obviously on the rise for the captain of what’s got all the signs of being a sinking ship.”
The expectation is that McDavid will remain patient, at least in the short term. However, if the Oilers fail to improve over the next season, the conversation could shift dramatically.
