The Pittsburgh Penguins received good news after Evgeni Malkin suffered a brief shoulder scare during a game, while trade deadline chatter intensifies around several teams. Reports suggest the Toronto Maple Leafs may sell key players, the Minnesota Wild could part with promising goalie Jesper Wallstedt, and the New York Rangers have set a high price for Artemi Panarin. Additionally, the NHL is reviewing an incident involving William Nylander.
The Penguins' relief came after Malkin clutched his shoulder and collapsed on the bench in visible pain, raising concerns given his history of shoulder issues. Penguins head coach Dan Muse downplayed it post-game, stating there was “nothing there,” and the team confirmed Malkin is fine. Josh Yohe of The Athletic reported that Pittsburgh believes Malkin avoided injury, a boost for the team sitting eighth in the NHL standings and near the top of the Eastern Conference. Malkin has tallied 40 points in 36 games this season, positioning him for contract talks during the Olympic break. Elliotte Friedman noted on the 32 Thoughts podcast that he does not see the Penguins selling given their strong performance.
Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs' fading playoff hopes have fueled seller rumors. Jonas Siegel of The Athletic indicated growing market momentum to sell, potentially including pending free agents Bobby McMann, Scott Laughton, Calle Järnkrok, and Troy Stecher. McMann could attract significant interest, while other names like Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Simon Benoit, Brandon Carlo, and restricted free agents Nick Robertson and Matias Maccelli are in consideration. Only Auston Matthews, William Nylander, John Tavares, and Matthew Knies might be untouchable, though not guaranteed. Separately, Chris Johnston reported the NHL is examining Nylander's recent on-camera gesture, for which he apologized as a “moment of frustration,” with potential discipline pending.
For the Wild, GM Bill Guerin may offer highly regarded goalie Jesper Wallstedt, 23, who boasts a .914 save percentage and four shutouts this season, under contract through next year. Friedman suggested on 32 Thoughts that Wallstedt could be used to acquire a true No. 1 center, a bold move unlikely for lesser targets like Nazem Kadri or Brayden Schenn.
The Rangers have established a steep asking price for pending UFA Artemi Panarin, using the Brock Nelson trade return as a baseline: a first-round pick, quality prospect, and more. Panarin, informed no extension is coming, seeks a five-year deal at $10–12 million AAV and prefers a trade with an extension or sign-and-trade over free agency. Interested teams include Anaheim, Washington, and Los Angeles.
