Welcome to another installment of NHL rumors! Logan Stankoven has made his NHL debut and secured his first multi-point game of his budding career. Teams seem to be avoiding overtime, with the Bruins having played six consecutive games that didn’t go into overtime. While that’s an interesting tidbit, the trade deadline is approaching, and the buzz is growing. Today’s rumours focus on the Edmonton Oilers and the New Jersey Devils.
Edmonton Oilers
Rumor: Elliote Friedman discusses Anthony Mantha and the Oilers on the 32 Thoughts podcast.
With the Edmonton Oilers climbing to the top of the standings, it’s clear they’ll be active buyers at the trade deadline. Over the past few weeks, there have been rumblings about the team seeking wingers. The team’s strength lies in the middle, but there’s room for improvement behind Zach Hyman and Evander Kane. Friedman mentions a familiar name to General Manager Ken Holland.
Anthony Mantha was drafted by Holland when he was with the Detroit Red Wings. Mantha now plays for the Washington Capitals and could be on the move. Washington is still in the playoff race but might consider selling Mantha to a contender.
Mantha is a big-bodied winger with a knack for scoring. He had a slow start but has picked up the pace in the last two months, tallying 17 points in that span. It might not be the flashiest move, but it would add depth to the wing position. A reunion in Edmonton could be on the cards, so keep an eye out for updates.
New Jersey Devils
The next batch of NHL rumors takes us to the East Coast. One team that’s in the mix but needs help is the New Jersey Devils. They not only need to handle their own business but also rely on help from the teams ahead of them. Additionally, they need assistance in the goal crease, and a name has emerged as a potential target.
Nashville Predators goalie Juuse Saros is a player the Devils are interested in. He’s a proven number one goaltender and has been stellar for the Predators. Currently, he has a.904 save percentage but a -3.3 goals saved above expected. The Devils’ goaltenders have struggled, ranking 32nd in team save percentage despite being in contention. In other words, they need to provide support to the players in front of the net, who have been doing their best.
However, there’s a snag. According to Seravelli, the predators want to keep Saros while they’re in contention. If the offer is enticing enough, they might consider it, but this would be a significant move in a wide-open Eastern Conference.
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