NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs, Penguins, Oilers, Flames – Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

In today's NHL rumor mill, illness has affected the Toronto Maple Leafs and left William Nylander's status for Wednesday's game up in the air. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins made an interesting draft choice. What does that mean for players like Jesse Puljujarvi and Rutger McGroarty? Is the former general manager of the Edmonton Oilers likely to take a job working for the NHL? Finally, are the 4-0 Calgary Flames done making a trade?

William Nylander vs Kings Status Uncertain

Ahead of the Toronto Maple Leafs game against the LA Kings, roster questions are emerging, especially regarding the availability of William Nylander. Nylander missed practice on Tuesday due to illness, and his condition is not yet known. Head coach Craig Berube addressed the situation, saying, “We'll see how he feels over time. I'll find out more later… I hope you're okay.” The latest is that Nylander is feeling better and it's a game time decision.

Meanwhile, John Tavares, who was also battling the disease, is back at the club and Joseph Woll is also back and taking a shot at practice.

Nylander's absence will affect the Maple Leafs' lineup and possibly their strength. Max Pacioretty could see time in the top unit. The group will be waiting to make final decisions on the plan.

TSN's Darren Dreger reports that defenseman Timothy Liljegren is expected to be on the roster. Liljegren, 25, has been healthy through the Leafs' first three games and trade rumors have surrounded him all season.

Penguins Live McGroarty… What's Next?

Josh Yohe of Athletic noted that Penguins rookie Rutger McGroarty could be headed back to the minors after having a healthy season against the Montreal Canadiens. The author writes:

Rutger McGroarty was a prolific artist, and I wonder if he might see some time in Wilkes-Barre at some point. He'll be good, but time in the AHL could benefit him.

source – 'Vintage Evgeni Malkin guides Penguins to crucial win in Montreal: 10 Yohe observations' – Josh Yohe – The Athletic – 10/14/2024

The 20-year-old is yet to register a point in three games and has struggled to make an impact despite starting 75% of his shifts in the attacking half. A move to the AHL could help a first-round pick find his game and build confidence.

Related: Today in Hockey History: Oct. 16

Meanwhile, Yohe thinks Jesse Puljujarvi should remain on the Pittsburgh Penguins roster after being scratched for Saturday night's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Puljujarvi appears rejuvenated, having spent a full summer training and producing for the team at the start of the season.

Will Holland take a job with the NHL?

Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reports that there is interest from the NHL in hiring Ken Holland. The former Oilers GM is well-respected in hockey circles and may be looking to stay involved in the game, possibly in a job that doesn't require much travel.

Friedman noted that there have been talks about his future and what he might do. “I believe one of the options on the table is a role in hockey operations in the NHL. They have spoken to him so they think it would be a good move but he has time to decide to see what his future will be like.”

Flames GM Craig Conroy Denies Rumors He Will Be Traded This Season

TSN's Pierre LeBrun reports that Calgary Flames general manager Craig Conroy is expected to be traded this season. The Flames are off to a 4-0 start, but more than that, he's happy with the roster and likes the peace surrounding the team. According to LeBrun, Conroy feels he has completed the necessary fire sales over the past 12 to 15 months.

LeBrun discussed other names on the rumored trade block—Nazem Kadri, MacKenzie Weegar, and Blake Coleman, but also noted that they all have contracts that extend through this season. Conroy is confident that these players want to contribute to the club's transformation and plans to include them in the organization's plans going forward. Conroy does not want to tear down the core and is looking to maintain stability, rather than making significant trades.