Sport

NHL Rumors Heat Up: Bruins, Oilers, Maple Leafs, and Canucks Make Headlines!

2024-11-20

Author: Emily

In the latest NHL rumors rundown, significant changes are on the horizon for several teams.

After the Boston Bruins made the startling decision to fire head coach Jim Montgomery, speculation is rife that the team will be compelled to trade players as they struggle through this season. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are facing potential setbacks with the health of Zach Hyman, the Toronto Maple Leafs are grappling with injuries including Max Domi, and the Vancouver Canucks are seeing intriguing developments regarding J.T. Miller's recent absence.

Bruins on the Brink of a Fire Sale?

According to Fluto Shinzawa on the What Chaos! podcast, the Bruins may have no choice but to unload depth players if their subpar performance continues. "Where’s the help?" Shinzawa questioned, hinting at the uncertainty surrounding rookie players like Poitras and Lohrei, as well as the inconsistent play of goaltender Swayman. The Bruins might consider trading veterans like Brad Marchand, Charlie Coyle, and Pavel Zacha, who are both pivotal and in the final years of their contracts.

However, key players like David Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy are seen as untouchables. Stay tuned, as the Bruins may be headed for a significant makeover if their fortunes don't improve soon.

Oilers' Woes: Hyman Injury Update Looms

Zach Hyman's status remains uncertain after he sustained what appeared to be a minor injury during a recent game against the Ottawa Senators. Following a heavy hit in the previous game, Hyman left early in the match and has yet to be evaluated by the Oilers' medical team. The organization is hopeful that he can return soon, especially with other stars like Darnell Nurse still sidelined.

On a brighter note, the Oilers recently bolstered their roster by claiming forward Kasperi Kapanen off waivers. Fans should expect to see Kapanen make his debut against the Minnesota Wild this Thursday.

Maple Leafs Struggle with Domi on IR

The Maple Leafs announced today that Max Domi has been placed on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury sustained before November 16. In a bid to fill the gap left by Domi, Toronto has called up forward Nikita Grebenkin from the AHL's Toronto Marlies. Coach Craig Berube hinted at possible lineup adjustments, with Mitch Marner considering a shift to center, and Fraser Minten also getting an opportunity to showcase his talents.

Domi's anticipated return on Sunday could be crucial in helping the Leafs regain their footing amidst a spate of injuries.

Canucks' J.T. Miller Takes a Break for Reflection

In a surprising turn of events, J.T. Miller has taken a leave of absence from the Vancouver Canucks. Sports analyst Rick Dhaliwal clarified that this break is not due to personal issues or controversies as some speculated, but rather a necessary "reset" for the player. After a challenging stretch filled with injuries and heightened pressures of playing in a Canadian market, Miller is using this time to regain his focus.

Dhaliwal emphasized, "It's not sinister. Sometimes players just need a breather, especially after being benched." It will be interesting to see how this time off influences Miller's performance once he returns to the ice.

As the NHL season progresses, keep an eye on these teams and players. The landscape is shifting rapidly, and any number of trades or injuries could dramatically change the competitive balance as the playoffs approach!