NHL Rumors: Flames, Blue Jackets, Senators, Hurricanes – Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

In today's NHL news and rumors, the NHL world is saddened to hear of the tragic loss of both Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew who were killed Thursday night. The Columbus Blue Jackets, Calgary Flames, NHL, and several other teams have issued statements.

In other NHL news, the Ottawa Senators signed Nick Cousins. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes have learned that Jesper Fast will miss the entire 2024-25 season. Also, are the Hurricanes closing in on a contract extension with restricted free agent Seth Jarvis?

Johnny Gaudreau Dies at 31

On Thursday night, social media was abuzz with what many believed to be disgusting rumors that Johnny Gaudreau had died. Hours passed as no reliable sources were able to confirm the reports and no one from the reliable sources the fans go to was speaking. On Friday morning, fans, players, NHL staff, teams, and sports figures around the world were devastated by the devastating confirmation that Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau had died.

The brothers were riding their bikes when they were hit by a car that was trying to pass another car that had pulled over to make room for the Gaudreaus on their bikes. The driver is suspected of drinking alcohol and has been charged with two counts of vehicular death, police said. They also noted that the investigation is still ongoing.

As if this news is not too sad, what is more disappointing is that the brothers were going to be promoters at their sister's wedding this weekend.

We here at The Hockey Writers extend our condolences to the entire Gaudreau family. “Johnny Hockey” was not only an amazing skill on the ice, but he was known as a valuable member of the communities in which he played and a great colleague and friend.

Related: Predicting the NHL's Under-the-Radar 30-Goal Scorers for 2024-25

The Blue Jackets and Flames both released statements.

The Blue Jackets wrote: “Johnny was not only an outstanding hockey player, but more importantly a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend,” the Blue Jackets' statement read. “Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies go out to the Gaudreau family, their friends, and all who knew and loved Johnny and Matthew during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Flames wrote: “Our hearts are broken by this tragic loss. Johnny was a member of the Flames family and loved by all in Calgary.”

Senators Sign Nick's Cousins

The Ottawa Senators signed forward Nick Cousins ​​to a one-year, $800,000 contract. According to PuckPedia, the Senators now have $1.1 billion in projected salary cap space with 22 players under contract – 13 forwards, seven defensemen and two goaltenders. It is unclear if they will add more this summer.

Jesper Fast Out for 2024-25 season, Jarvis Close contract

According to the Carolina Hurricanes PR account, the forward is expected to miss the entire season after undergoing neck surgery back on August 6. Fast, 32, has scored six goals and added 13 assists (19 points) in games 73 in the 2023-34 season with Carolina.

In other Hurricanes news, tight end Seth Jarvis is one of the more notable unsigned free agents. However, that could soon change, as David Pagnotta of the Fourth Season reported on NHL Tonight that the two sides are nearing an agreement on an eight-year maximum contract. Last season, Jarvis posted career highs of 33 goals and 34 assists in 81 games, averaging 18:45 of ice time per game. He scored 67 points, ranking second in scoring against the Hurricanes, behind only Sebastian Aho.

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