NHL Rumors: Canucks Pausing GM Search, Rielly Trade, Oilers Returns – The Hockey Writers –

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Vancouver Canucks are weighing whether their next general manager hire could hinge on the upcoming draft lottery, the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their search for a new front-office leader while keeping tabs on Morgan Rielly’s future, and the Edmonton Oilers are trending toward a healthier lineup just in time for Game 1 against the Anaheim Ducks.

The first handful of playoff games are underway, but there’s no shortage of speculation as teams not in the postseason mix are making moves.

Canucks’ GM Search May Depend on Draft Lottery Outcome

The Canucks’ search for a new general manager may not be as immediate as once thought, with growing belief that the club could wait until after the NHL Draft Lottery before making a final decision. According to Elliotte Friedman, one of the biggest factors in the hiring process may be where the team ends up selecting in this summer’s draft.

Friedman explained that candidates are going to be asked about the draft philosophy—who they would take first, second, or third overall, and how they would adjust if their top targets are gone. “That might be the biggest question they face—arguably even bigger than who the GM will be,” he said.

So too, the Canucks, who have a long history of bringing in familiar leadership, are now without an obvious internal successor. With Jim Rutherford’s tenure expected to wind down, ownership is trying to decide if it should follow the trend of hiring a new, first-time GM.

Morgan Rielly Trade Market Heating Up

Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Morgan Rielly is firmly back in trade speculation this offseason, with multiple Western Conference teams reportedly circling the situation. According to insider David Pagnotta, the San Jose Sharks, Chicago Blackhawks, and Seattle Kraken have all shown interest.

Pagnotta wrote:

“Rielly has four more seasons remaining on his contract after this one and comes with a $7.5 million salary cap hit. Teams like the San Jose Sharks, Chicago Blackhawks and Seattle Kraken have been rumoured to have interest in him, should the Leafs look to move him.”

San Jose is seen as the most natural fit given their cap flexibility and rebuild timeline, while Chicago also aligns as a younger roster seeking a veteran defenseman. Seattle remains a wildcard. Much of that could depend on what happens with Vince Dunn.

Maple Leafs Interview Scott White as GM Search Narrows

The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to interview potential general managers, interviewing Dallas Stars assistant GM Scott White this past week. Elliotte Friedman noted that White has already met with the club multiple times; he’s not sure they’ve done an in-person interview. Still, he fits the “well-rounded” profile Toronto is targeting.

White has held a variety of roles in Dallas, including contract work and AHL oversight, and is viewed as a trusted lieutenant under GM Jim Nill.

Reports suggest Toronto may be preparing for in-person follow-ups, with a decision potentially coming later this week. White is considered a steady, versatile candidate, and remains firmly in the mix as the Leafs aim to replace Brad Treliving and stabilize their front office direction.

Oilers Trending Toward Healthy Lineup for Playoffs

The Edmonton Oilers appear to be moving closer to full health ahead of Game 1 against the Anaheim Ducks, with both Leon Draisaitl and Jason Dickinson participating in Sunday’s practice. While neither player confirmed availability, signs point toward a near-complete lineup.

Draisaitl skated on the second line and worked on the top power-play unit, suggesting he is being prepared for a full workload. Jason Dickinson also took part in penalty-killing drills, a key indicator he could be getting close. Media and fans are waiting for an update coming out of the Oilers optional pre-game skate on Monday morning. Draisaitl could be a game-time decision.

Head coach Kris Knoblauch and the players remained cautious in public comments, but optimism is growing.