What's the latest speculation on John Gibson and Trevor Zegras with the Anaheim Ducks and Oliver Wahlstrom with the New York Islanders?
The Anaheim Ducks entered the off-season carrying plenty of cap space, a deep prospect pool and extra draft picks in 2025.
There was an expectation that GM Pat Verbeek could use those assets to add one or two notable veterans who would accelerate his club's rebuilding program.
On July 1, Eric Stephens of The Athletic reported sources claimed Verbeek made offers to UFA stars Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault. However, both players opted to sign with the Nashville Predators.
Stephens wondered if the Ducks GM might pull off a seismic trade to bolster his roster. So far, his only moves were depth deals, adding winger Robby Fabbri from the Detroit Red Wings and defenseman Brian Dumoulin from the Seattle Kraken.
In a recent mailbag, Stephens was asked why John Gibson remains in Anaheim. The 30-year-old Ducks goaltender has been a frequent topic of trade speculation over the last three years. He believes Verbeek tried several times to move Gibson, but his $6.4-million annual average value through 2026-27 is a significant stumbling block, especially with the Ducks unwilling to retain part of it.
Stephens was also asked what the future holds for Trevor Zegras. The 23-year-old center missed most of last season due to injuries amid rumors he might be available in the trade market.
This season could be a make-or-break one for Zegras. He could enjoy a breakout campaign, establishing himself as an impact player. He could have a productive campaign but not one that convinces management he's a foundation player or settle in as a complementary, 60-point forward.
Zegras was seen as a potential franchise player just two years ago. Anything less than a major step forward this season will stoke more conjecture about his place with the Ducks.
Turning to the New York Islanders, they recently avoided salary arbitration with Oliver Wahlstrom, signing the 24-year-old winger last Thursday to a one-year, $1-million contract.
However, the New York Post's Ethan Sears speculated Wahlstrom's future with the Islanders remains uncertain. His deal puts the Isles over the $88-million salary cap for 2024-25.
Sears thinks this contract allows Wahlstrom a chance to nail down a roster spot in training camp. However, he felt they could also use that period to showcase the winger for a trade.
The Hockey News' Stefen Rosner noted that Islanders GM Lou Lamoriello indicated at the draft last month that his club was open to giving Wahlstrom an opportunity elsewhere. However, he wouldn't give him away for free. With the winger no longer waiver-exempt, Lamoriello would likely prefer a trade.
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