NHL Rumors: Vladar Deal, Tortorella Future, Hellebuyck Trade, Markstrom and Oilers – Hockey Writers –

In today’s NHL rumor game, the Philadelphia Flyers appear to be close to locking up their starting goaltender, the Vegas Golden Knights may be making a surprising coaching change after their Stanley Cup Final loss, and the Edmonton Oilers remain in the midst of both coaching speculation and goaltending rumors as an important season begins. Could the aging goalkeeper they’ve been chasing be on their radar again?

Flyers Closed on Vladar’s Expansion

The Philadelphia Flyers appear ready to commit to goaltender Dan Vladar after a solid first season as their starter. According to Kevin Weekes, the two sides are working on a five-year contract extension that could be in the range of $5 million per year.

Vladar, who has one year left on his current deal at $3.35 million, put up impressive numbers during the regular season with a 2.42 goals-against average and a .906 save percentage over 52 games. He followed that up with an even stronger playoff showing, posting a 2.18 GAA and .922 save percentage in 10 postseason contests while leading the Flyers to a surprise first-round victory over the Penguins.

While making a long-term commitment after one season is risky, the Flyers seem confident that Vladar can build on his performance. If he does, the agreement may quickly turn into a contract.

Despite a deep playoff run that ended in a loss in the Stanley Cup Final, the Vegas Golden Knights may be preparing for a significant change behind the bench. Head coach John Tortorella, who was brought in for a short time, is not expected to return after June 30.

Rumors suggest that the Golden Knights plan to promote Ryan Craig from their AHL team in Henderson as their next coach. If true, it would indicate that Tortorella’s hiring was always intended as a temporary solution.

Vegas continues to take an unconventional approach, even after success. Tortorella would be one of the more interesting coaching options on the market, with the possibility of retirement or an interview with a team like the Edmonton Oilers.

Oilers Coaching Search and Goalie Available

While Mike Babcock’s investigation continues, and there is talk that he could be removed from the NHL, the uncertainty in Vegas could have negative consequences in Edmonton. Babcock is their top target now, but if he isn’t moved, Edmonton may turn to Totortorella or Darryl Sutter.

Outside of coaching, the Oilers continue to explore solutions in net, a problem that has persisted for several seasons. With Tristan Jarry testing an early failure and Connor Ingram likely headed for free agency, Edmonton is expected to continue to work on both the trade and free agent markets.

Another name that has recently been linked to the Oilers is veteran goaltender Jacob Markstrom. Currently under contract for two more seasons at $6 million a year, Markstrom’s rumors are rife, and this is the goalie the Oilers have been after. He posted a 3.07 goals-against average and .883 save percentage last season, numbers that raise concerns. However, he could be an option if the Devils are willing to save salary.

Hellebuyck on Devils Radar?

Why is Markstrom suddenly the topic of trade discussion in New Jersey? Speculation about Connor Hellebuyck requesting a trade to the Winnipeg Jets could be part of the equation.

Right now, the trade request is a baseless rumor, but he expressed concern at the end of the season. He seems willing to wait and see how the offseason goes, but the Jets’ actions during the draft, free agency, and trade market could influence what he ultimately decides to do. Devils can be a suitor.

For now, Hellebuyck hasn’t asked, but if Winnipeg fails to improve, a trade request in the next few years remains a possibility.