NHL Trade Watch: Trocheck Rumours, Oilers & Maple Leafs Trade Talk

In today’s edition of NHL Trade Watch, we get into some new rumours that are floating around the league. With the NHL currently in its Olympic break, there hasn’t been a ton of news coming out, which is expected. Most teams are quiet right now. That said, a few stories did surface over the weekend that are worth digging into.

First, we’ll look at the Vincent Trocheck rumours. Then, we’ll shift to some trade talk involving the Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers.

Trocheck Trade Rumours

Over the last few weeks, there have been rumours circulating about the New York Rangers potentially moving Trocheck. After the organization sent a letter to fans outlining their rebuild, it feels like just about everyone could be available. However, one notable exception is Igor Shesterkin. Trocheck’s name has been out there. In a recent 32 Thoughts blog edition, Elliotte Friedman suggested the idea of him being linked to the Detroit Red Wings.

Trocheck has already been connected to the Minnesota Wild, who are looking to add a top-six centre. As for Detroit, there’s some history there. As Friedman pointed out, during the 2022-23 free agency period, the Red Wings were very interested in Trocheck before the Rangers ultimately won the bidding and signed him. Because of that, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Detroit circle back. That is especially true now that he could be available via trade.

Oilers & Maple Leafs Talk Trade

According to David Pagnotta, the Maple Leafs and Oilers were discussing a potential trade just before the roster freeze came into effect. The name most people assumed would come up was Bobby McMann. Surprisingly, that wasn’t the case. Pagnotta suggested the Oilers were asking about Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Nicolas Roy. Here’s what he said:

“I know there was a lot of attention and speculation surrounding McMann, but going into the week, they hadn’t spoken about him. It sounds like maybe it’s Nic Roy, maybe it’s an Oliver Ekman-Larsson. That’s something to keep an eye on coming out of the break and closer to the deadline.”

It makes sense. The Oilers are looking for depth forwards who understand their role, and Roy fits that description. He played that role with the Vegas Golden Knights before being dealt to the Maple Leafs. He’s continued to do the same in Toronto. He competes, plays hard minutes, and doesn’t expect top-six usage.

As for Ekman-Larsson, he would add some stability to Edmonton’s blue line. He isn’t an Ekholm-lite type of defenceman, but he can play on a second or third pairing and still contribute offensively. It’ll be interesting to see if these two teams reconnect on a deal once the Olympic roster freeze ends. Additionally, it will be interesting as the deadline gets closer.

Next: Surprising Lines Emerge at Team Canada’s First Olympic Practice