The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to commence in-person interviews for their head coaching position this week, narrowing their focus to approximately five candidates. Joe Pavelski and Patrick Roy are reportedly among the finalists. While Jay Woodcroft is also believed to still be a contender, confirmation remains pending.
There is a possibility that the Vancouver Canucks and Montreal Canadiens could revisit trade discussions involving forward Brendan Gallagher. Gallagher, who has one year remaining on his contract with a $6.5 million cap hit and a $4 million actual salary, has expressed openness to a move to Vancouver, and the Canucks have shown some interest. His agent indicated that while the interest is present, the feasibility of a deal remains uncertain.
Regarding the Minnesota Wild, Charlie Stramel is expected to receive a significant opportunity at training camp if he is not traded. Despite an ankle injury that sidelined him for his entire professional season, he is viewed as a potential middle-six forward, though not a future top-line center. Discussions are anticipated regarding the Wild’s pursuit of a No. 1 center. It is assumed that Kirill Kaprizov and Matt Boldy will remain with the team. If the Wild were to target Dylan Larkin of the Detroit Red Wings, a package involving Danil Yurov, Stramel, a first-round pick, and a supporting player like Ryan Hartman or Yakov Trenin (for a forward) or Jonas Brodin or Jake Middleton (for a defenseman) might be considered. Middleton’s no-movement clause is active until July 1st. The Wild’s management aims to inject more youth and speed into their bottom six. Coach Jon Hynes is expected to receive a contract extension, and RFA forward Bobby Brink is likely to sign a bridge deal.
