NHL Rumors: Kreider Waived, Formenton to Oilers, Hughes Stuck, and Hellebuyck Options – The Hockey Writers – Edmonton Oilers

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, Chris Kreider and the Anaheim Ducks are reportedly moving toward a mutual contract termination, giving the veteran forward a chance to find a new home while creating significant salary-cap flexibility for Anaheim. The Edmonton Oilers have added Alex Formenton on a one-year deal, and the reaction is as expected. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets continue to face uncertainty surrounding Connor Hellebuyck’s trade request, with a few teams still in the mix. Finally, Quinn Hughes remains undecided about his long-term future with the Minnesota Wild.

Chris Kreider, Ducks Expected to Terminate Contract

Chris Kreider is officially on unconditional waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract, with the Anaheim Ducks and veteran forward reportedly expected to reach an agreement. Kreider carries a $6.5 million cap hit this season, so a mutual termination would give Anaheim significant financial flexibility as the club continues working toward a contract with restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier.

Kreider is reportedly willing to walk away from approximately $4 million in salary in order to pursue an opportunity elsewhere, with indications that he would prefer to return to the Eastern Conference. The reality is, the way contracts are moving, there’s a very good chance Kreider ends up making close to the same money as he is now.

Expect teams like Boston, Philadelphia, Montreal, and the New York Islanders to be in the mix.

Oilers Add Alex Formenton on One-Year Deal

The Edmonton Oilers have signed forward Alex Formenton to a one-year contract carrying an $850,000 AAV. The 26-year-old spent the past three seasons playing in Switzerland with HC Ambri-Piotta, recording 52 points in 88 games.

Formenton previously played 109 NHL games with the Ottawa Senators, collecting 23 goals and 16 assists. His speed and penalty-killing ability could give Edmonton another option as the club evaluates its forward group heading into training camp. That said, he’s unlikely to be guaranteed a spot on the roster.

Formenton also addressed the controversy surrounding his signing, saying, “Throughout this whole process I’ve been open and honest about my actions and that has granted me an opportunity today.” He added that he has had a productive summer of training and skating and feels ready to take the next step.

Connor McDavid and Evan Bouchard were also seen supporting Formenton at the captain’s skate. McDavid spoke with him prior for a good 10 minutes. Bouchard was there in support as Formenton spoke to the media after the skate.

Hellebuyck Trade Situation Getting Complicated

Connor Hellebuyck’s trade situation remains unresolved, and Elliotte Friedman believes it has become more complicated than it was earlier in the offseason. Hellebuyck and his agent publicly confirmed that a trade request had been made months ago, and the goaltender reportedly wants the situation resolved before training camp.

The problem is that some of the assets and potential trade partners that were available earlier this summer are no longer in play. Florida used significant assets to acquire Brady Tkachuk, while Buffalo’s fourth-overall pick—which was believed to be a key part of a potential Hellebuyck package—is now off the table after the Sabres selected Daxon Rudolph.

Pierre LeBrun identified Carolina, Buffalo and Utah as possibilities.

Quinn Hughes Still Not Ready to Commit to Wild

Quinn Hughes’ future with the Minnesota Wild remains uncertain, with TSN’s Chris Johnston reporting that the superstar defenseman does not appear ready to sign an extension—not even necessarily a short-term one.

Hughes enjoyed his time in Minnesota after being acquired from Vancouver, but his long-standing desire to potentially play alongside his brothers remains an important consideration. Johnston suggested Hughes has been spending the summer deciding what he wants for his future, while Minnesota appears prepared to make him a significant financial offer.

Earlier speculation centered around Hughes potentially signing a shorter contract. However, the latest developments suggest Hughes may be considering keeping all of his options open and potentially reaching unrestricted free agency. With the signing-bonus deadline approaching, his decision could come down to how much flexibility he wants.