Analyzing the biggest 2026 NHL trade rumors, from Connor Hellebuyck to the Rangers to Dylan Larkin in Montreal.
Nearly three weeks into the 2026-27 NHL regular season, trade rumors are swirling around several notable stars across the league. General managers face mounting pressure as injuries and slow starts force early evaluations of their rosters.
Multiple high-profile players, including Connor Hellebuyck and Alexander Nikishin, have found themselves at the center of intense speculation regarding potential trades. Analysts continue to debate the plausibility of these blockbuster moves happening in the near future.
Fans and pundits are carefully examining which rumored transactions make sense and which ones are mere speculation, according to information published by bleache.
Connor Hellebuyck to the New York Rangers
A season-ending leg injury suffered by New York Rangers starting goaltender Igor Shesterkin sparked speculation about a potential pursuit of Connor Hellebuyck. The Winnipeg Jets holdout requested a trade in August and remains suspended without pay.
While ESPN analyst Kevin Weekes suggested Hellebuyck as an option, insider Elliotte Friedman does not expect a deal. Adam Gretz called the move not logical due to salary cap constraints, and TSN reporter Darren Dreger noted the teams spoke without meeting the asking price.
Dylan Larkin to the Montreal Canadiens
Montreal Canadiens fans recently chanted We want Larkin at the Bell Centre during a game against the Detroit Red Wings. This led observers to wonder if center Dylan Larkin might agree to a trade to Montreal.
The Canadiens desperately need a second-line center, and Larkin requested a trade this summer. However, his preferred destination list reportedly excludes all seven Canadian teams, making a potential trade to Montreal a complicated scenario.
Alexander Nikishin and the Carolina Hurricanes
Defenseman Alexander Nikishin has been a fixture in the trade rumor mill since June after requesting a trade following the Carolina Hurricanes winning the Stanley Cup. A rumored deal with the New York Rangers previously fell through.
Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman recently suggested the possibility of Nikishin returning to Carolina if both sides agree on a new contract. Nikishin carries a rumored asking price of a five-year deal worth $9 million annually.
Philadelphia Flyers Facing Early Struggles
The Philadelphia Flyers opened the season with a disappointing 0-6-3 record, leading to fan frustration and speculation about possible roster changes. Insider Pierre LeBrun reported that general manager Daniel Briere received calls but no offers providing immediate help.
Pundits noted that players like Trevor Zegras, Jamie Drysdale, and Travis Konecny could become trade chips if things do not improve. However, experts believe the team will likely have to deal with their current struggles internally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Connor Hellebuyck be traded to the New York Rangers?
Industry insiders do not expect Connor Hellebuyck to join the New York Rangers because the financial cost and salary cap implications make the trade illogical for the franchise.
Why did Dylan Larkin get linked to the Montreal Canadiens?
Dylan Larkin was linked to the Montreal Canadiens after fans chanted for him at the Bell Centre, and because the Canadiens are actively seeking a reliable top-six center.
What is the status of Alexander Nikishin with the Carolina Hurricanes?
Alexander Nikishin requested a trade in June, but a return to the Carolina Hurricanes remains possible if the defenseman and the team can agree on a new contract.
