NHL Rumor Roundup: Is Mathew Barzal On The Trade Block? Are The Leafs Interested In Vincent Trocheck?
The New York Islanders tumbled out of playoff contention late in the regular season, finishing eight points out of a wild-card berth in the Eastern Conference.
Islanders GM Mathieu Darche has only been in the job a year, but he's shown a willingness to make bold moves. He shipped defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens last June for Emil Heineman and two first-round picks. Since January, he added veterans Brayden Schenn, Carson Soucy and Ondrej Palat.
The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun reported Darche was interested in re-signing captain Anders Lee, but he needed to make other moves first. That could mean the Isles GM is planning to free up some salary-cap space, perhaps by shipping out a high-salaried player.
Islanders & Clearing Cap Space: Who Could Be On The Move?
The Islanders have decisions to make given their crowded roster.
Speaking of New York teams, the Rangers are expected to continue listening to trade offers for Vincent Trocheck.
The 32-year-old center was the focus of considerable speculation before the March trade deadline. However, Rangers GM Chris Drury didn't receive any offers to his liking, indicating he might try again in the off-season.
It's been speculated the Montreal Canadiens were among the clubs making inquiries about Trocheck's availability at the trade deadline. It remains to be seen if they're still interested. However, Mollie Walker of the New York Postcited a source claiming the two clubs haven't spoken.
Another Canadian team could be in the mix. According to Walker, the Toronto Maple Leafs recently reached out to the Rangers about Trocheck. This occurred after the Leafs learned that Max Domi is sidelined indefinitely following complications from back surgery, putting them in the market for a second-line center.
Walker felt Trocheck could be a good fit with the Leafs. However, that depends on whether Toronto is on his no-trade list and the Pittsburgh native's willingness to go to Canada.
As for the potential return, Walker speculated it could cost the Leafs left winger Nick Robertson and defense prospect Ben Danford. The Rangers could have an eye on Matthew Knies, but the Leafs could be unwilling to part with the 23-year-old power forward.
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This story was originally published June 3, 2026 at 8:38 AM.