NHL Rumors: Canucks, Oilers, Blue Jackets, Islanders, Jets – Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

In today's NHL Rumors report, one insider notes that the Vancouver Canucks and Carolina Hurricanes were talking about an interesting trade this past deadline and that the Canucks are back in those talks and very interested in Martin Necas. Meanwhile, it appears that Don Waddell is taking a job with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Will someone from Edmonton join him when the Oilers' playoff run is over? The Winnipeg Jets have hired Scott Arniel as their head coach. Finally, the New York Islanders and Chicago Blackhawks completed their draft picks on Friday. Do Islanders exist?

Is/Was a deal between the Hurricanes and Canucks

Elliotte Friedman said Carolina Hurricanes forward Martin Necas was discussed in the Elias Pettersson trade deadline deal involving Carolina and Vancouver. He noted that with all the speculation currently surrounding Necas, the Canucks could go back. Friedman said, “And (Martin) Necas is a big one.” And you know I got a call this morning. I think there's something to this, and I'm sure you're not alone but I think there's something to Vancouver. I agree. I think that, I think the Canucks like this player.”

It was also mentioned that maybe the Hurricanes will target Filip Hronek since the Hurricanes will need to defend. Hronek had conflicting media reports towards the end of the season and some believe he is not interested in staying in Vancouver long-term.

Rick Dhaliwal reported that he was told the Canucks are serious about Martin Necas. “Many groups are walking around, asking what it will take. I believe the Canucks clearly made the call. I was told again this morning that the Canucks are very serious. “

Related: 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs Conference Finals Hub

The Canucks also parted ways with Jeremy Colliton and hired Manny Malhotra as the new coach in Abbotsford. Colliton found his desire to pursue NHL opportunities.

Waddell Takes Job In Columbus?

Don Waddell leaving Carolina is on his own, according to a report from Andy Strickland. He adds, “…even if he was told to come back, he would walk.” According to sources.” Reason appears to be taking the top hockey job in Columbus where it appears Waddell will gain complete control of the program.

Pierre LeBrun reports, “Nothing is finalized yet but hearing that Don Waddell is the Blue Jackets' choice to take the top hockey job in Columbus. If things go well, you should see an announcement next week.” Darren Dreger says:

“I was told that it almost arrived yesterday. Almost a holiday weekend holding a contract job. It will be interesting to see how long Waddell oversees Hockey Ops and acts as GM at CBJ. Great jobs. No decisions on this until the end of the playoffs as soon as possible. “

Jimmy Murphy then noted that he felt the same thing about Waddell in Columbus, but also noted that Edmonton may be a team to watch here as Ken Holland is being considered for the GM job with the Blue Jackets. Is Murphy suggesting that both Holland and Waddell end up in Columbus and work together?

Arniel Gets Job With Jets

The Winnipeg Jets have hired Scott Arniel as their new head coach. Darren Dreger reports that Winnipeg has interviewed top picks although Arniel is considered the front runner in the process. He adds, “Arniel is highly respected by the players and has earned another shot at being an NHL head coach.”

Islanders Add Another Second Round Draft Pick

In a trade on Friday, the Islanders received a first-round pick (#20) and two second-round picks (#54 and #61) from the Chicago Blackhawks for a first-round pick (#18) and a second-round pick (#50). The Islanders paid up in the second round to move up just two spots in the first round and four in the second round. Why?

Many believe this is a precursor to another move from the Islanders where a second round pick may be needed to make a deal. It's possible that the Islanders are just the last few picks, but another theory is that the Islanders could use an extra second-rounder to get rid of a bad contract.

Subscribe to our Daily NHL News & Rumors Substack newsletter