NHL Rumors: Bedard and Byram, Robertson Trade, Maple Leafs Buzz – The Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the buzz over the weekend involving James van Riemsdyk to the Toronto Maple Leafs amounted to nothing, but there is still talk about Morgan Rielly. Was Connor Bedard‘s extension in Chicago directly linked to the trade that brought in Bowen Byram? Where are things at with Jason Robertson? Finally, Jack Campbell announced his retirement, and he’s carving a new path and taking on a new career.

Maple Leafs Create Buzz with Unexpected Throwback

The Maple Leafs caught fans off guard after sharing a highlight of former forward James van Riemsdyk, who hasn’t played in Toronto for years and remains unsigned. The post, captioned “Don’t blink”, quickly sparked theories about a possible reunion.

There is nothing to it.

While the idea has some logic—van Riemsdyk can still contribute in a limited role—there’s no indication a deal is in place. The Maple Leafs also posted videos about Tyler Bozak and Justin Holl. These videos were merely throwback teasers.

Is a Morgan Rielly Trade Still Possible?

NHL insider Chris Johnston said on the season finale episode of “The Chris Johnston’s Show” that Toronto’s expectation has not changed regarding a Morgan Rielly trade. He believes the Maple Leafs are still trying to find a trade that would move the defenseman.

“I’m still curious to see what happens with Rielly,” Johnston said. “I continue to hear that the expectation is ‘You will still be moved before next season,’ but you know, as I mentioned in our previous trade discussions, some of the steam sometimes goes out of those talks when we get a little deeper into the summer.”

He added, “I still think that they’ll be looking at ways to change and shape the roster, so this is probably the one busiest offseason for the Leafs I can remember.”

Chicago’s Offseason Moves Pay Off with Bedard

The Blackhawks’ acquisition of Bowen Byram may have played a subtle but important role in finalizing Connor Bedard’s extension. The two players share a long-standing connection, and Bedard’s positive reaction to the move reportedly helped move his extension along.

Chicago’s front office understood that Byram had more value beyond what he could do as a top defenseman for the team. His relationship with Bedard helped convince already committed Bedard to stay.

Robertson Situation Heating Up in Dallas

Contract talks between the Dallas Stars and Jason Robertson remain unresolved, and the situation is becoming one that needs to be addressed prior to his July 25 arbitration hearing. Robertson seems unlikely to move off of his ask — given the new deals for Carlsson and Bedard, why would he? Meanwhile, Dallas is weighing how to make the numbers work.

If negotiations stall further, trade discussions will have to pick up. The Pittsburgh Penguins are a team to watch.

Jack Campbell Retires to Become Life Coach

Former Oilers, Leafs, and Kings goaltender Jack Campbell has announced his retirement from professional hockey at 34. Via an Instagram bio update and video, Campbell has said goodbye to his playing days and announced he is becoming an identity and performance coach.

He put in his description:

“Walking away from hockey wasn’t easy. It gave me more than I could have ever imagined. But over the last few years, I realized the work that brought me the most fulfillment wasn’t stopping pucks—it was helping people become who they’re capable of becoming. I’m incredibly grateful to begin this next chapter as a coach with @novus.global . I can’t wait to walk alongside athletes, leaders, and high performers as they create bigger visions for their lives and become the people those visions require.”