Oilers Consider Darnell Nurse Trade, Maple Leafs Seek Puck-Moving D, Canadiens Eye Nico Hischier

The NHL trade market is heating up as the Edmonton Oilers consider moving Darnell Nurse, the Toronto Maple Leafs seek a puck-moving defenseman, and the Montreal Canadiens prepare to go all in for Devils center Nico Hischier. With the 2026 offseason in full swing, teams are evaluating their options as they look to reshape their rosters for a new season.

Darnell Nurse is reportedly open to trade discussions for the first time in his Oilers tenure. The 28-year-old defenseman is under contract for $9.25 million through the 2027-28 season, a cap hit that makes any trade difficult. Nurse’s production dipped last season as his average ice time fell to 20:19 per game, a drop of nearly two minutes from the previous year. Edmonton is unlikely to panic, but with Nurse willing to listen, teams with cap space and a need for a veteran two-way defenseman will begin circling.

The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, are prioritizing a puck-moving defenseman as they prepare for a coaching change and roster reset. John Tavares and Auston Matthews provided offensive firepower, but the blue line struggled, with Morgan Rielly posting a career-low 49 points in 82 games. Toronto is targeting options like Dougie Hamilton, who had 43 points in 78 games with the Flames, or Darren Raddysh, who remains a UFA. The Leafs also remain in the mix for Colton Parayko, though his no-trade clause complicates any deal.

Pierre LeBrun reported that the Canadiens are ready to pay a “real price” if Hischier becomes available. The 25-year-old center is under contract for $7.5 million through 2028 and has averaged 62 points over the past three seasons. Hischier’s 10-team no-trade clause gives him control, but Montreal’s young core, led by Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, could be a perfect fit. Kent Hughes has already been aggressive this summer, and if Hischier is willing to listen, the Habs are prepared to offer a blockbuster package and a long-term extension.

As the trade rumors swirl, all three teams face key decisions. The Oilers must decide whether to move Nurse or keep him as part of their core. The Maple Leafs need to finalize their coaching staff and make a move on the blue line. And the Canadiens are ready to act if Hischier is put on the market. With the July 15 trade deadline approaching, expect the action to pick up in the coming weeks.