In the latest NHL rumors update, Connor McDavid’s return to the Edmonton Oilers appears to be delayed, leaving fans and analysts speculating on the reasons behind his absence. Following the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, head coach Kris Knoblauch indicated that McDavid would not be joining the lineup immediately, with expectations set for him to miss games against the Anaheim Ducks and the Los Angeles Kings. Although there are whispers of a minor hand injury, there is also concern that the Oilers might be allowing him some time to recover mentally after the team’s disappointing performance in the Olympics. As the franchise gears up for critical games, maintaining McDavid’s focus and readiness will be vital for their playoff aspirations.
In another development, veteran player Jonathan Toews has publicly committed to the Winnipeg Jets amid speculation surrounding his future. During a candid interview, Toews expressed his desire to remain with the Jets despite their current struggles and the likelihood of missing the playoffs this season. He recounted how close the team has been to turning their fortunes around and remains optimistic about their chances for the rest of the season. Notably, Toews’s contract is up for renewal after this season, and while he hasn’t spoken about an extension yet, his commitment to the team is clear.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves in a state of contemplation regarding their strategy as the trade deadline looms. According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, the organization believes it is still in playoff contention despite recent challenges. General Manager Brad Treliving has refrained from making any decisive moves, highlighting a mix of uncertainty about whether the team should be sellers at the deadline. This sentiment raises questions about the Leafs’ competitiveness should they manage to secure a playoff spot.
As teams navigate the delicate balance of roster management and playoff hopes, the coming days promise to be active in the NHL world, particularly with the looming trade deadline.