In right this moment’s NHL rumors rundown, the Edmonton Oilers have an thought when Evander Kane will return after profitable surgical procedure. Additionally they made a number of vital hires of their entrance workplace. In the meantime, the Vancouver Canucks have signed goaltender Kevin Lankinen to a one-year deal. Why did that deal take so lengthy to get executed? The Robin Lehner state of affairs in Vegas has taken one other attention-grabbing flip. Lastly, extra Calgary Flames have proven their help for staying in Calgary amidst a rebuild.
Evander Kane Seemingly Again in January or February
Elliotte Friedman posted a tweet on Sunday confirming that Edmonton Oilers ahead Evander Kane had profitable surgical procedure. In that tweet, the insider additionally supplied up an approximate return date for the winger. Friedman wrote, “Evander Kane had his surgical procedure Friday in NYC. No precise timeline for restoration, however not anticipated to be out there till January/February.”
That is excellent news for the Oilers in that Kane might be again nicely forward of the playoffs. It’s attention-grabbing information too, as a result of it means the staff doubtless gained’t do something with LTIR and his wage cap except issues go sideways early within the season.
The Oilers additionally made a number of key hires this week, specializing in analytics, scouting, and knowledge. Final yr, they employed Michael Parkatti as Senior Director of Information and Analytics, and now they’ve added Dominik Zrim, (co-creator of Cap Pleasant) as Director of Hockey Technique. They’re pushing extra towards superior knowledge evaluation, one thing that Brad Holland was a fan of earlier than leaving the staff this summer season.
The Oilers additionally added to their scouting. Warren Rychel has been promoted to Director of Professional Scouting. Former Oiler Zach Kassian was additionally employed as a extra conventional scout.
Canucks Signal Kevin Lankinen to Workforce-Pleasant Deal
The Vancouver Canucks have secured a stable backup goaltender on Sunday by signing Kevin Lankinen, who lowered his asking worth to affix the staff. With Thatcher Demko’s well being unsure and Arturs Silovs nonetheless comparatively inexperienced, the Canucks wanted dependable insurance coverage in aim.
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Canucks reporter Rick Dhaliwal appeared a bit shocked this deal acquired executed contemplating Lankinen’s preliminary price ticket and determination to show down the staff two weeks in the past. Whereas no property have been wanted to amass him, Dhaliwal speculated that Lankinen had been holding out for a greater provide. Finally, the Canucks managed to signal Lankinen for lower than the anticipated $1 million.
This transfer helps the Canucks keep away from overworking Demko, a mistake they made final season that led to his present harm points.
Lehner Says Golden Knights Knew About His Absence
Friedman reported on Sunday that the Golden Knights have been advised that goaltender Robin Lehner wouldn’t make his medical examination to open the season. Friedman quoted Lehner’s assertion: “Everybody is aware of why I couldn’t be there. I’m ready calmly for issues to be sorted out.”
It’s a thriller as to what’s going on right here between the 2 sides. The Golden Knights are pursuing choices with the NHL and the NHLPA is ready to push again on any determination to terminate Lehner’s deal. All of the whereas, the goaltender appears to be hinting he stored the group within the loop.
Extra Flames Present Assist for Staying in Calgary
A number of Calgary Flames gamers have publicly voiced their dedication to staying within the metropolis, regardless of ongoing hypothesis about their futures. After Nazem Kadri lately advised reporters to “pump the brakes” on questions relating to his future, teammates have echoed comparable sentiments about their want to stay with the Flames.
Defenseman MacKenzie Weegar was clear when he stated: “I don’t need to go anyplace.” He added, “I need to construct the repute again up on this metropolis and make it a championship metropolis once more.” Weegar emphasised his appreciation for Calgary, including that he desires to present again to the neighborhood that has embraced him.
Blake Coleman additionally spoke about his connection to the town and the worth of staying put. “We find it irresistible right here,” Coleman stated, praising Calgary as an incredible place to dwell and lift a household. “Nothing would make me happier than to win in Calgary.”
Jonathan Huberdeau, who signed an eight-year take care of the staff added, “I didn’t signal a long-term deal to not be right here,” He famous, “I need to be a Calgary Flame.”
