NHL Rumors: Demidov Deal, Roy and Maple Leafs, Lee Going UFA, Trocheck Renewal – Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

In today’s NHL rumor mill, the Montreal Canadiens appear to be on the brink of sealing a key part of their future. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their coaching search, and the interview with the divisive name went well. There are updates on Gallagher and Trocheck, and the New York Islanders may lose their captain in free agency.

Canadiens, Demidov closes long-term extension

Expect the Montreal Canadiens to move quickly on a long-term extension with Ivan Demidov as soon as the calendar turns to July. Inside Sportsnet’s Eric Engels reports that a deal isn’t just possible—it’s imminent because of the financial incentives to get it done.

Since the current collective bargaining agreement expires on Sept. 16, signing before that date allows Demidov to receive an eight-year deal with signing bonuses of more than 60 percent of the total contract value. If he waits, it drops to seven, and the bonuses are much smaller.

Canadiens GM Kent Hughes has already labeled Demidov a core piece, and the player has expressed a clear desire to stay in Montreal. With Nick Suzuki currently the team’s highest paid forward at $7.875 million per year, Demidov’s next contract could fall in the $8-10 million range.

Maple Leafs Enter Coaching Search, Roy Impressing

The Toronto Maple Leafs coaching search is heating up, and Patrick Roy is emerging as a serious contender. According to insider Elliotte Friedman, Roy’s interview was “really good,” adding that the former NHL bench manager is considered a legitimate choice for the role. Toronto was given permission to talk to Roy while considering the likes of Peter Laviolette and Jeff Halpern (Halpern has reportedly been released).

Roy brings a combination of elite pedigree and strong personality. A Hall of Fame goaltender with four Stanley Cups, he also picked up the Jack Adams Award in his first season coaching the Colorado Avalanche. He recently played with the New York Islanders with mixed results but he was not fired because the team did not like him. They wanted Pete DeBoer, and that meant moving on from Roy.

Rangers, Maple Leafs Monitoring Trocheck Situation

The trade speculation surrounding Vincent Trocheck appears to be cooling down, according to Darren Dreger. While rumors have linked him to the Maple Leafs—especially Toronto, who may be looking for center depth—the Rangers aren’t rushing a move. There is a growing belief that New York may hold onto Trocheck and re-evaluate near the trade deadline.

The Rangers waited until the summer to try to get the best return, but they are unlikely to pressure Trocheck into giving up his trade protection, even if his roster is dwindling.

Canadiens Give Gallagher Permission to Seek Trade

According to Rick Dhaliwal, “Brendan Gallagher’s agent Gerry Johansson has permission from Montreal to facilitate the trade.” Gallagher spoke to the media this week and noted that he knew he would be leaving Canada.

With a year left on his contract, the Habs are hoping the team will pick up Gallagher’s full contract without the need to retain salary.

Islanders Face Uncertain Future With Captain Anders Lee

There is a growing belief that Islanders captain Anders Lee could hit unrestricted free agency on July 1. NHL insider Pierre LeBrun reports that contract talks between Lee and the team have stalled, with the two sides currently far from reaching a new deal. While the Islanders would love to keep their longtime leader, the expectation is that Lee will at least test the open market.

At 35 years old (turning 36 in July), Lee remains a consistent contributor, producing nearly 20 goals and 45-55 points per season. However, his age makes long-term commitments risky, and negotiations may depend more on time than annual salary. Lee has spent his entire 14-year NHL career with the Islanders and has expressed interest in staying, but if he reaches free agency, he’s likely to draw interest as a reliable middle-six winger with leadership experience.