James Nichols
There’s going to be a lot of smoke out there about teams watching what happens with the New Jersey Devils captain.
However, not all smoke leads to fire.
Who wouldn’t be checking in on what Nico Hischier’s status is in New Jersey? Don’t give into it. The facts remain Hischier and his camp have had positive discussions with Sunny Mehta regarding an extension.
Not sure what I’m rambling about? It’s the first story linked in the news below.
Also yesterday, grades for the Peanut Butter and Jelly duo.
Elsewhere, a SHOCK in Vegas, Montreal’s biggest problem, and more NHL trade discussion.
Devils Trade Rumors & News
New Jersey Hockey Now: Nico Hischier and the Devils have officially kicked off contract extension talks, a huge development for their captain and franchise cornerstone.
If Sunny Mehta decides to trade Simon Nemec, there will be no shortage of interest. Here are eight destinations where the 22-year-old defenseman can land.
Devils forward Paul Cotter scores a gritty net-front goal for Team USA, helping set up a high-stakes World Championship quarterfinal rematch with Canada.
Daniel Amoia drops the first Devils grades, looking at Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt’s season—highlighting their elite chemistry, a dose of disappointment, and big expectations for next year.
📺 Devils Rink Report: Despite the debunked trade request rumors, the Devils could still move Simon Nemec this summer—and here’s why we broke down on the latest Devils Rink Report why it might actually make sense for their roster needs.
After missing the playoffs, the Devils are doubling down on Sheldon Keefe—smart continuity or a costly mistake heading into 2026-27? 👇🏼
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NHL Trade Talk, News & National Hockey Now
Colorado Hockey Now: And that will do it for the Colorado Avalanche in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. In a plot twist no one expected, the Vegas Golden Knights broke out the brooms and swept the consensus cup favorites.
Montreal Hockey Now: The Montreal Canadiens’ biggest playoff problem wasn’t goaltending or defense — it was their inability to shoot the puck effectively when it mattered most.
Forever Blueshirts: The New York Rangers have several intriguing options in the later rounds of the 2026 NHL Draft, and Jess Rubenstein breaks down the best sleeper prospects who could help restock their prospect pool.
Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Evgeni Malkin re-signs with the Pittsburgh Penguins on a one-year deal, but with an evolving role and big incentives attached as the franchise bridges old guard and youth.
Boston Hockey Now: The Boston Bruins could look to flip Casey Mittelstadt this summer, using him as the key piece to solve a much bigger need on the roster.
Philly Hockey Now: Will James hands out the Philadelphia Flyers report cards on their third-pair rotation, grading Nick Seeler, Emil Andrae, and Noah Juulsen and what it means for next season.
Sportsnet: The NHL’s top 12 UFAs for 2026 are hitting the open market soon and the latest rumors suggest some major names could be on the move.
TSN: Pending UFA Claude Giroux is leaning toward playing a 20th NHL season but he’s still carefully weighing his future options.
