The latest news on expansion, sort of
James Murphy of RG Media: Obviously, expansion is a knee-jerk reaction with things looking pretty good for the NHL. The salary cap finally increasing at a good pace plays into these rumors. The impression from top NHL brass, however, is that reality goes beyond rumor.
Some continue to point out that Atlanta, Phoenix, Houston, etc. are among the cities in the race. However, Bill Daly says you should hold your horses until at least 2030. That’s no surprise, as the NHL is assessing cities on a case-by-case basis, with no real timeline for a decision.
The problem is that none of these proposals are more than just at the feeling stage. Even with Atlanta, nothing is concrete just for perspective. Once again, the next CBA expires in September 2030. However, there is no urgency to add one or two teams before then. This goes against what has been seen in various rumor mills. Don’t believe the hype.
NHL Rumors: Potential Trade Targets and Panarin?
Others also see Quebec and Kansas City as possibilities. Again, these two cities are barely on the radar as far as the NHL is concerned. There has not even been an exchange of ideas with these two cities or even with Houston. No one has seen in-depth proposals from a leaked variant, regardless of what the NHL may or may not have seen. So far, nothing close to threatening.
Rumor Mill Board of Directors
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic: Yes, Keith Pelley is getting used to the way the Toronto Maple Leafs operate and tick. While Toronto moved on from Mitch Marner, everyone is waiting to see when the Maple Leafs will make the move. Then for now there is the relief with the Connor McDavid deal. Edmonton will always be on the clock, however partially, because Toronto is perceptually looming.
When Kyle Connor got $12 million AAV, the price for Adrian Kempe naturally went up. A long-term deal is now expected in the $11-12 million AAV range, while previously the figure may have been in the $9-$10 million AAV range. Ultimately, Kempe could take a little less, but the higher pay is indeed good for the sport.
NHL Rumors: Los Angeles and Vancouver
Remember, this is an Olympic year. You’re going to hear it a lot. Concerns about the Olympics are already mounting and the NHL is probably not too happy about it. Test dates may be moved and there are already concerns about the safety of the Olympic Village. The IOC has said an ice rink will be built before Christmas and the testing date will take place in January.
Saying there is no plan B is a bit scary. Finally, expect the Olympic selection announcements to happen around December 31st. It makes too much sense to market it a bit.
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