Jonathan Toews is considering retirement
Sources indicate that Winnipeg Jets forward Jonathan Toews, 28, is contemplating retirement, with this outcome being considered more probable than not. Toews’ leadership was a significant asset to the Jets last season, though the demands of an 82-game schedule are considerable.
It is understood that Toews is disappointed with the team’s failure to make the postseason, and his formal announcement is expected soon. He is reportedly leaning heavily towards retirement at this time.
Edmonton Oilers’ areas of need and potential targets
Edmonton Oilers GM Stan Bowman is actively seeking a fast, scoring winger to complement Connor McDavid. The Oilers also need to address their goaltending situation, bolster their defense corps, find a third-line center, and acquire two forwards for their bottom six.
There’s speculation that St. Louis Blues forward Jordan Kyrou could be a target, with Philadelphia Flyers forward Owen Tippett also mentioned by some. The Oilers could free up significant cap space, estimated between $15 to $18 million, by trading defenseman Darnell Nurse, who possesses a no-movement clause.
Potential Toronto Maple Leafs trade candidates this offseason
While Morgan Rielly’s name has surfaced in trade rumors for the past couple of seasons, the current offseason presents a stronger possibility for a deal. The San Jose Sharks and Edmonton Oilers have been linked as potential destinations for Rielly.
The Maple Leafs have not yet approached Rielly regarding his no-movement clause, but they plan to do so if trade discussions reach an advanced stage. The team also faces decisions in goal, with one of Joseph Woll, Anthony Stolarz, or Dennis Hildeby potentially being traded.
Defenseman Brandon Carlo is expected to be part of trade speculation again. It’s also possible that the Maple Leafs will not extend a qualifying offer to RFA forward Mattias Maccelli. Pending UFA forward Calle Jarnkrok is not anticipated to return, and preliminary discussions have been held with pending UFA defenseman Troy Stecher.
GM John Chayka is reportedly contacting other teams to gauge the market value for a middle-six forward, a top-six winger, and multiple defensemen.
