Rumor mill: Anthony Duclair on the trading block

The draft is just around the corner, and when you say draft, you say transactions. There have already been several in the last few days, but there’s no end in sight for the NHL.

After a superb playoff run, the Florida Panthers are reportedly looking to make a move to keep their team competitive. The team is reportedly in the process of offering Quebec forward Anthony Duclair to other NHL teams.

Sounds like the Florida Panthers are actively shopping Anthony Duclair, who is entering the final year of his contract.

– David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) June 27, 2023

NHL Network ‘s David Pagnotta explained on Tuesday that, in fact, the Panthers are “actively” offering Duclair to other NHL teams. He should find a new home very soon.

Florida would like to trade him to avoid having to negotiate a new contract with him next year, when his deal expires at the end of next season.

Duclair is in the final year of a $3 million-a-year contract. He amassed 58 points, including 31 goals, in 74 games in 2022-23. It’s a bargain, and he’ll certainly be getting a raise on his next contract.

The end of Alex Killorn in Tampa Bay?

After so many years of loyal service, it looks like it’s time for Alex Killorn to pack his bags and find a new team. Again, David Pagnotta reported the news that Killorn would not accept a long-term contract with a low salary to stay in Tampa Bay.

The Lightning pitched Alex Killorn a long-term offer at a low AAV to stay in Tampa, but it doesn’t sound like that’ll get it done. As of now, he’s likely hitting the market July 1 unless TB can move money.

– David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) June 27, 2023

The Lightning will have to trade to free up payroll space if they hope to convince Killorn to stay.

Killorn amassed 466 points in 805 games with the Lightning during his 11 NHL seasons. His $4.45 million-a-year contract expires on July 1. With 64 points in 82 games last season, Killorn can look forward to a salary increase on the free-agent market.

Bruins don’t expect veterans to return

It seemed clear in everyone’s mind that Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci will not be returning to the NHL next season. However, the Bruins still seem to have hope.

Boston is currently operating under the assumption that both players won’t make the roster next year.

The Bruins are operating under the assumption that Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci won’t be back, president Cam Neely said. But they’re still hopeful they will be and communication is open with the players. They’re giving them space and time to make decisions on their futures.

– Dan Rosen (@drosennhl) June 27, 2023

In fact, the Bruins are prepared to see them leave, but have offered both players the chance to negotiate if they’re interested. The decision rests with Bergeron and Krejci.

The Sharks are ready to move

The San Jose Sharks have made no secret of the fact that they are ready to trade their fourth overall pick if the right opportunity presents itself. In fact, they’d be willing to back off. General manager Mike Grier recently explained that he’s open to all options.

#SJSharks GM hints at draft strategy, including what he’s open to doing with No. 4 overall pick https://t.co/cOI4VD9jWm

– Curtis Pashelka (@CurtisPashelka) June 26, 2023

For the time being, the Sharks could choose between Matvei Michkov and Will Smith. However, if the Blue Jackets draft Will Smith as rumors have it, they would also have the opportunity to select Leo Carlsson.

Expect the Sharks to be active on Wednesday night.

Senators must trade DeBrincat

At a press conference on Tuesday, Ottawa Senators general manager Pierre Dorion explained that Alex DeBrincat never asked to be traded.

Where does Alex DeBrincat end up? 👀🐱 pic.twitter.com/GMMYohZYNV

– BarDown (@BarDown) June 27, 2023

However, he announced to the team that he will not be renewing his contract with Ottawa. He will become a compensated free agent on July 1. Pierre Dorion understands that he will have to be traded to try to get a return.

The Senators acquired DeBrincat from the Blackhawks on July 7 in return for a first-round, second-round and third-round pick.

Tom Wilson not on the market

Washington Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan confirmed to Pierre LeBrun that power forward Tom Wilson is not for sale.

Rumors: Capitals forward Tom Wilson’s name reportedly not on the trade markethttps://t.co/b7ijzkJQIz

– RDS (@RDSca) June 27, 2023

Wilson will reach the final year of his $6,166,666-per-year contract in 2023-24. He collected 22 points in 33 games last season, missing part of the season with a torn ACL suffered during the 2022 playoffs.

Florida interested in Tyler Bertuzzi

The Panthers may be trying to trade Anthony Duclair, but they’re sure to find someone to replace him, and that someone would be Tyler Bertuzzi.

Florida Panthers among a handful of teams with significant interest in Tyler Bertuzzi.

– Andy Strickland (@andystrickland) June 27, 2023

Bertuzzi’s contract expires on July 1 and he will become an uncompensated free agent.

Several other teams would also be interested in signing Bertuzzi as a free agent. He’s in line for a big contract, having scored 10 points in 7 games during the Bruins’ series against the Panthers.