It doesn't look like the 29-year-old is going anywhere for now.
Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson's name has been coming up in trade speculation as he enters the final year of his contract, but that noise is about to quiet down.
Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman provided an update on the Wilson situation on 32 Thoughts on Friday and said that when he reached out to ask about the 29-year-old's status and availability, he was "rejected" and told that any kind of deal was out of the question.
"I was told it's not happening; I was told the Capitals want to keep him and they consider him a big part of their future," Friedman said.
The update comes after reports emerged that the Los Angeles Kings "allegedly kicked the tires" on Wilson, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.
Washington wanting to hold onto Wilson is no surprise. The Ontario native has emerged as a huge part of the Capitals' culture and is one of the most respected voices in the locker room.
Not only that, but Wilson said he won't "play hardball" with his next contract and expressed his desire to finish his career in D.C. The feeling is mutual for general manager Brian MacLellan and the organization, especially when it comes to his growth.
While he's still a physical presence, Wilson has steered clear of disciplinary action of late and has emerged as a vital top-6 forward and penalty-killer.
Wilson missed the first part of 2022-23 after undergoing ACL surgery last May and was also sidelined again after breaking his ankle blocking a shot in February, but he still put up 13 goals and nine assists for 22 points in 33 games. That would have put him on pace for his second consecutive 50-point season.
In the end, Washington holding onto Wilson is the best bet. He'll be a key veteran presence to have when the Alex Ovechkin era ends, especially as the team starts to integrate youth into the room. Not only that, but he's also arguably the next captain after No. 8 hangs 'em up, and he'll be able to be a guiding voice as the Capitals look toward the future.
Wilson becomes eligible to sign an extension on July 1.