NHL Rumors: Canucks GM, Tkachuk Trade, Oilers OT Call, Kopitar Done – The Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Vancouver Canucks continue their search for a new general manager, Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk fuels offseason speculation, and the Chicago Blackhawks weigh roster upgrades. The Edmonton Oilers lost in brutal fashion in overtime, and Connor McDavid avoided talking about his injury. Finally, a legendary career has come to an emotional end in Los Angeles.

Canucks Eye Oilers’ Bill Scott for GM Role

The Canucks’ front office search remains active, and a new name has entered the mix: Bill Scott of the Edmonton Oilers. According to John Shannon, Scott is expected to interview for the role via Zoom, adding to a growing list of candidates. He’s also reportedly drawn interest from the Nashville Predators.

Scott brings a well-rounded résumé, including experience as an AHL GM, salary cap specialist, and director of operations. He would be an intriguing option for a Vancouver team looking for stability and someone who can eventually take over for Jim Rutherford. While this would be his first NHL GM job, his long tenure in Edmonton suggests he could be ready for the opportunity.

Tkachuk Rumors Swirl Around Senators Captain

Just hours after being eliminated from the playoffs, Brady Tkachuk’s offseason storyline is already gaining traction. The Senators’ captain is likely to be the talk of the offseason, and his future in Ottawa will be in question.

He currently resides in New Jersey, sparking speculation about a potential move closer to home. Naturally, that has led to chatter involving nearby teams like the New York Rangers.

Tkachuk has maintained that he’s committed to winning in Ottawa, but given how this season ended, plus a real focus on his podcast and family bond to his brother Matthew, nothing feels off the table. A series sweep could change a lot of things.

The Senators will have an opportunity to discuss his long-term future this summer, and his response will shape the franchise’s direction. Whether he doubles down on Ottawa or becomes a blockbuster trade candidate.

In other Senators news, Claude Giroux said that if he returns to the NHL next season, he’ll want to stay with the Senators.

Blackhawks Exploring Top-Six Additions

As the Blackhawks continue their rebuild, adding a top-six forward remains a priority. General manager Kyle Davidson has significant draft capital at his disposal, including multiple first-round picks, which could be used to acquire proven talent.

Potential targets could include players like Matthew Knies of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Jason Robertson of the Dallas Stars, or Robert Thomas of the St. Louis Blues.

Oilers Down 3-1 After Controversial OT Loss

The Edmonton Oilers are in a tricky spot, down 3-1 in their series to the Anaheim Ducks after a controversial goal call stood. The issue is less about whether the puck crossed the line than about the NHL having any proof it did, and about how the officials overturned their own on-ice decision to call the puck in.

The takeaway from this series might, sadly, be that the NHL needs to adopt technology to eliminate these kinds of critical calls. Baseball and tennis have it. One would think the NHL could find a way to decisively determine if a puck was over the goal line, even if a skate was blocking the camera view.

McDavid also avoided answering a question about his health after Game 4, suggesting there is certainly a lingering issue he’s dealing with.

Kings Legend Anze Kopitar Retires After Historic Career

An era has officially come to an end as Anze Kopitar has retired following the Los Angeles Kings first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Colorado Avalanche. The longtime captain leaves behind a remarkable legacy after 20 seasons, all with the Kings.

Kopitar exits as the franchise’s all-time leader in games played, points, and assists, and was a central figure in delivering two Stanley Cup championships. A three-time Lady Byng winner and two-time Selke Trophy recipient, his impact extended far beyond scoring. Kopitar will be remembered as one of the greatest players in franchise history—and a likely first-ballot Hall of Famer.