Marc-André Fleury's potential NHL return is drawing interest from the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens amid goaltending uncertainties. The Carolina Hurricanes recently explored trading Jesperi Kotkaniemi in a deal for Phillip Danault that fell through. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers seek a specific third-line center, and the Vancouver Canucks describe their strategy as a hybrid rebuild.
Marc-André Fleury, at 39 years old and officially retired, is resurfacing in league discussions for a possible comeback. According to Mike Rupp and Devan Dubnyk on NHL Network, the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens are the most logical fits. For the Oilers, Fleury would address an unsettled goaltending situation despite additions like Tristan Jarry and interest in Connor Ingram, especially with injuries emerging. As a Quebec native, a return to the Canadiens could provide a storybook ending, offering meaningful games even if they are not Cup favorites, amid questions about Sam Montembeault's future. Fleury would only return to play and win, weighing legacy against one last chase.
The Carolina Hurricanes attempted to acquire Phillip Danault from the Los Angeles Kings, offering Jesperi Kotkaniemi as the centerpiece, as revealed by David Pagnotta on The DFO Rundown. The Kings declined due to the remaining term on Kotkaniemi's deal and fit concerns, despite his $4.82 million cap hit, opting instead for draft picks from Montreal. This indicates Carolina's willingness to move Kotkaniemi, particularly with Seth Jarvis sidelined week-to-week and their history of bold trades ahead of the trade freeze's end.
Bob Stauffer hinted that the Oilers are targeting a big, right-shot third-line center from a team on the playoff bubble, emphasizing needs for face-off wins, penalty killing, and playoff minutes. This addresses bottom-six questions without shifting Ryan Nugent-Hopkins from the top line.
The Vancouver Canucks' mention of a 'hybrid rebuild' has confused observers, including TSN's Craig Button. GM Patrik Allvin's phrasing suggests competing with young players and veterans without a full teardown, though critics see it as evasive jargon for avoiding a true rebuild amid an awkward roster position.
