As the 2026 NHL draft weekend approaches, the trade speculation is ramping up on stars, such as Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets, Dylan Larkin of the Detroit Red Wings and Jake DeBrusk of the Vancouver Canucks.
The NHL draft weekend is fast approaching. While the focus will be on where this year's top prospects end up, there could also be trades involving some established talent.
There's already been plenty of action this week in the trade market, and more could be coming soon.
Here's the latest on the notable names in the rumor mill.
Connor Hellebuyck, G, Winnipeg Jets
David Dwork of The Hockey News reported the Florida Panthers are keeping their goaltending options open, including the possibility of acquiring Hellebuyck. However, Murat Ates and Shayna Goldman of The Athletic pointed out the Panthers lack the tradeable assets to acquire the Jets' goalie unless they're willing to include center Anton Lundell, which is unlikely.
Dylan Larkin, C, Detroit Red Wings
The Athletic's Michael Russo and Joe Smith report the Minnesota Wild remain interested in acquiring the Red Wings captain. GM Bill Guerin remains in constant contact with Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman and Larkin's agent, Pat Brisson. However, they don't have the assets to meet Yzerman's asking price. Russo and Smith suggest it might take a third team to get involved to make the deal happen.
Jake DeBrusk, LW, Vancouver Canucks
DeBrusk is completing the second year of a seven-year deal with an affordable $5.5-million cap hit and a full no-movement clause. The 29-year-old left winger has expressed his reluctance to be part of a rebuilding club, prompting speculation he'll be traded. Patrick Johnston of The Province reports a source saying he's pretty sure DeBrusk doesn't want to return to the East.
Alexander Nikishin, D, Carolina Hurricanes
TSN's Darren Dreger reported multiple teams confirming the Hurricanes are considering trading Nikishin. The 24-year-old defenseman is an RFA on July 1 and could seek a lucrative long-term deal. With about $11.1 million in cap space, the Hurricanes have the cap space to re-sign him, but there may be a concern over whether he fits into their long-range plans.
Kirill Marchenko, RW, Columbus Blue Jackets
According to Aaron Portzline of The Athletic, teams are calling the Blue Jackets about Marchenko. The 25-year-old right winger has a year remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $3.85 million. Portzline indicated the Blue Jackets aren't shopping Marchenko and want to keep him. They could sign him to an extension on July 1. Nevertheless, that hasn't stopped teams from making inquiries.
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